FG Dismisses Claims of Christian Genocide in Nigeria

 

The Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has rejected claims that Christians are being targeted in Nigeria, insisting that no religious group is under persecution in the country.

Speaking at the one-year coronation anniversary of the 21st Elerin of Erin-Ile, Oba Jimoh Adebowale Adesoye (Adetona I), in Oyun Local Government Area, Kwara State, Fagbemi said the recent violent attacks across the country cut across religious and ethnic lines.

“There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria. There is no persecution of any religion, sect, or ethnic nationality,” the AGF said.

He cited the spate of killings in Zamfara and Sokoto, predominantly Muslim states, as evidence that violence is not targeted at any particular group. “Killings are happening in Zamfara, Sokoto and other Muslim-dominated areas. That is not to say the situation is okay, but it shows clearly that violence is not targeted at any religion,” he said.

Fagbemi assured Nigerians that the federal government is fully aware of insurgency challenges and is “winning the war against terrorism,” adding that efforts are being intensified to tackle killings, banditry, and other crimes nationwide.

“We should reject any insinuation that there is a Christian genocide in the country. The government is taking all necessary steps to ensure that killings and banditry are nipped in the bud,” he stated.

The AGF also called on Nigerians to be patient with the administration of President Bola Tinubu, noting that current reforms are aimed at strengthening the nation’s foundation for development. “We all know the present situation is not rosy, but there is light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ibrahim Bata, highlighted the critical role of traditional institutions in governance.

In his remarks, Oba Adesoye pledged to prioritize the development of Erin-Ile, emphasizing that youths, who make up about 65 per cent of the productive population, would be central to initiatives in agriculture, healthcare, food security, and overall community security.

The ceremony concluded with the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, presenting the beaded crown to the new Elerin.