“No Christian Genocide Here!” – Islamic Council Hits Back at Trump, Accuses U.S. of Hidden Agenda

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has strongly rejected the designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” by former U.S. President Donald Trump, dismissing claims of a “Christian genocide” in the country as dangerous foreign propaganda aimed at destabilising Nigeria.

Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, NSCIA National Secretary Prof. Ishaq Oloyede described the genocide narrative promoted by the U.S. government and far-right lobbyists as false, politically motivated, and designed to inflame religious divisions in Africa’s most populous nation.

“There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria. Both Muslims and Christians are victims of terrorists and criminal gangs,” Oloyede said. “These attackers do not represent Islam. They kill Muslims, destroy mosques, and target everyone.”

He emphasized that insecurity in Nigeria stems from terrorism, criminality, poverty, and the effects of climate change, which have displaced communities and triggered violent clashes over resources. Independent investigations, including reports by Amnesty International and other global conflict monitors, confirm that the violence does not meet the legal definition of genocide under international law.

Oloyede also suggested that the renewed push to label Nigeria a zone of religious persecution followed the country’s reaffirmation of support for a two-state solution in Palestine at the United Nations. He alleged that pro-Israeli and far-right groups are using the narrative to divert attention from the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

“The agenda is distraction and destabilisation. The fastest way to break Nigeria is to inflame religious tensions,” he warned.

The NSCIA called on Nigerians, both Muslim and Christian, to reject foreign interference and resist attempts to turn genuine security challenges into sectarian conflict. The council also urged the U.S. to withdraw its statement and instead support Nigeria with intelligence and logistical aid to combat terrorism.

“We will not allow foreign interests to fragment Nigeria. We stand for unity, peace, and justice,” Oloyede concluded.

The council additionally appealed to the Nigerian government to strengthen security, expose sponsors of banditry, and protect all citizens regardless of faith.

Recall that Trump had previously threatened military action against Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians, following his designation of the country as a Country of Particular Concern. The Nigerian government has consistently rejected these claims, calling instead for international cooperation to address the country’s security challenges.