Crisis Rooted in Terrorism, Not Religion – Nigeria’s Defence Chief Dismisses ‘Christian Genocide’ Allegations

General Olufemi Oluyede rejects US claims of Christian persecution in Nigeria, asserting that ongoing insecurity stems from terrorism rather than targeted faith-based violence.

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has firmly dismissed allegations of a “Christian genocide” in the country, describing the claims as baseless and misleading.

The statement comes amid escalating diplomatic tension following US President Donald Trump’s decision to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged persecution of Christians. Trump’s remarks included a warning that continued inaction by the Nigerian government could trigger potential US military involvement.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday after a strategic meeting with the National Security Adviser (NSA), General Oluyede clarified that Nigeria’s security crisis is driven by terrorism and banditry, not religious persecution.

“There is no Christian persecution in Nigeria. I want to assure Nigerians and the international community of that,” he said. “What we are dealing with is insecurity and terrorism — challenges that have affected Nigeria for years. The Armed Forces are doing everything possible to contain these threats.”

General Oluyede further described terrorism as a global phenomenon that transcends religion or ethnicity, emphasizing the need for collective international action rather than divisive narratives.

“Terrorism is not peculiar to Nigeria. It’s a worldwide challenge, and if other countries are willing to partner with us, we are open to such cooperation,” he added.

The recent allegations, amplified by some US lawmakers and religious freedom groups, have sparked intense debate over the true nature of Nigeria’s security situation. While advocacy groups frame the violence as targeted against Christians, Nigerian authorities maintain it is part of broader insurgencies led by extremist organizations like Boko Haram and ISWAP, which indiscriminately attack citizens of all faiths.

Observers say the Defence Chief’s remarks are aimed at reaffirming Nigeria’s sovereignty while countering what officials describe as “external misrepresentation” of the country’s internal conflicts.

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