Senate Rejects US Claims of Christian Persecution in Nigeria

Lawmakers in the National Assembly, led by Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South), have dismissed claims by the United States alleging widespread persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

The senators described the foreign reports as “dangerous and misleading,” insisting that insecurity in the country affects Nigerians of all faiths and is not driven by religion.

Their position followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Ndume and co-sponsored by Senators Sani Musa (Niger East), Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko (Sokoto North), and Ibrahim Bomai (Yobe South), titled: “Urgent Need to Correct Misconceptions Regarding the Purported ‘Christian Genocide’ Narrative in Nigeria and the International Communities.”

The sponsors warned that the continued propagation of such narratives could deepen religious divisions, distort international perception, and strain Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and internal cohesion.

In his presentation, Senator Ndume acknowledged that Christian communities had indeed suffered tragic attacks but maintained that Muslims and adherents of other faiths have equally been victims of terrorism, banditry, and communal violence.

He said: “The mischaracterisation of Nigeria’s complex security challenges as a religious war does not reflect the reality on the ground. Both Muslims and Christians have suffered significant casualties in different parts of the country.”

Ndume added that Nigeria’s unity and stability depend on mutual understanding and accurate representation of facts, urging local and international observers to avoid narratives that could fuel sectarian mistrust.

“Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation whose survival relies on responsible communication and shared national values,” he said.