President Bola Tinubu says terrorism in Nigeria is driven by criminality and extremism, urging Nigerians to ignore narratives capable of causing divisions in the country.
Speaking in Abuja while declaring open the eighth biennial conference and annual general meeting of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Tinubu maintained that there is no Christian genocide in the country.
Represented by Lateef Fagbemi, attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, the president reiterated that Muslims and Christians are both victims of terrorism.
“In recent times, the federal government and other persons of goodwill have had to address unfounded allegations,” he said.
Advertisement
“The allegations are not only false but harmful and capable of inflaming passions and disrupting the sustenance of the peaceful coexistence which we continue to build as a nation.
“Nigeria’s response was clear, firm, and measured. We reaffirmed that our nation does not foster or tolerate policies or actions aimed at persecuting any religious group.
“Muslims and Christians alike have been victims of terrorism in Nigeria. Muslims and Christians alike stand shoulder to shoulder in condemning violence from any quarter.
Advertisement
“As president, I reiterate with all sense of responsibility and fidelity to the constitution that there is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, and there is no Muslim genocide in Nigeria.
“What we have is terrorism driven by criminality, extremism, and challenges we are working tirelessly to overcome.”
The president said his administration is working to alleviate the pain caused by reforms.
Advertisement
