No state sponsored genocide in Nigeria – Bishops

A group of Christian bishops on Friday converged on Abuja, where they firmly dismissed claims alleging a state-sponsored genocide against Christians in Nigeria.

The clerics reacted to recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who described Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing alleged genocidal attacks on Christians.

Addressing newsmen ahead of the North West Peace Summit and Humanitarian Awards scheduled for December 17 and 18, Bishop Timothy Cheren, who led the delegation, said there was no evidence to support the allegation of a government-backed genocide.

“There is no state-sponsored Christian genocide in the country. However, we believe there are elements who may be fueling violence,” he said.

Cheren commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in tackling insecurity and urged Nigerians to support ongoing campaigns against terrorism and banditry.

He acknowledged that Nigeria has grappled with complex security challenges capable of threatening national stability but insisted that solutions lie within the collective will of government and citizens.

The bishops also cautioned religious leaders against inciting rhetoric and extremist teachings that could provoke violence.

“The presence of peace does not mean the absence of justice. The government must ensure anyone involved in incitement is brought to book,” Bishop Cheren said.

The Bishops lauded the appointment of Gen. C.G. Musa as Minister of Defence, describing it as a positive step towards strengthening the nation’s security architecture.

They also urged the government to treat recent warnings from the United States as an opportunity for deeper partnership in combating terrorism.

Commending the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, for his long-standing peace efforts, the clerics described him as a “harbinger of unity” for the North and the country.

Cheren noted that the forthcoming North West Peace Summit in Kaduna, to be chaired by the Sultan, would complement government and stakeholders’ efforts towards lasting peace in the North West and across sub-Saharan Africa.

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