Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused opposition politicians of promoting what he described as a “false and divisive narrative” that Christians are being systematically targeted and killed in Nigeria.
Speaking at a public engagement in Abuja, Wike said the claims were politically motivated and designed to undermine the federal government. He argued that the country’s security challenges affect Nigerians of all faiths and ethnicities, not just one religious group.
“It is unfair and dangerous for anyone to paint insecurity in Nigeria as a war against Christians,” Wike said. “Those spreading such stories are not helping the nation—they are only serving their own political interests.”
The minister urged citizens, religious leaders, and the media to verify information before publicising it, warning that misinformation could inflame religious tension and further destabilise the country.
Wike maintained that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of faith, and continues to invest in security operations aimed at curbing banditry, terrorism, and communal violence.
Government Denies Religious Targeting Claims
Wike’s comments align with the federal government’s earlier position rejecting allegations of targeted attacks on Christians. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously dismissed similar claims as “misleading” and “politically instigated.”
Several religious and civic groups have also called for restraint in how violence is reported. The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) recently urged the government to expose those allegedly spreading false genocide claims, while some Christian organisations have demanded better protection for worshippers nationwide.
Security
Security analysts note that Nigeria’s violence stems from complex causes, including terrorism, banditry, farmer–herder clashes, and criminal attacks across several regions.
Experts warn that framing the crisis solely along religious lines could obscure its deeper socio-economic and political roots.
Wike, who also served as Rivers State governor, said the government would continue to work with community and faith leaders to promote peace and unity.
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“Nigeria belongs to all of us—Christians, Muslims and others,” he added. “We must not allow anyone to divide us through propaganda.”
