The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has condemned the decision of the United States government under President Donald Trump to list Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.
In a statement in Abuja on Sunday, the Secretary-General of the Council, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, described the move as unfair, one-sided, and a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s complex security situation.
According to Oloyede, the violence ravaging parts of the country has no religious colouration, as both Muslims and Christians have been victims of terrorist attacks.
“Terrorists are killing Christians and Muslims alike. What we face is not a religious war but a national security crisis,” he said.
He urged the U.S. government to assist Nigeria in fighting insecurity instead of “pushing divisive labels” that could fuel misunderstanding among citizens.
Oloyede explained that the roots of insecurity in Nigeria are tied to ethnic, political, and economic factors, not religion. He said portraying the crisis as persecution of one faith against another was misleading and dangerous.
The Council cautioned against external attempts to exploit Nigeria’s diversity and called on citizens to unite against terrorism and banditry.
The NSCIA also appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen its fight against insecurity, ensure justice, and promote peace across all communities.
“We must resist every foreign attempt to sow seeds of division. Nigeria’s peace depends on our collective understanding,” the statement added.
