Presidency Clarifies: Insecurity in Nigeria Affects All Faiths, Not a Religious War

Presidency Clarifies: Insecurity in Nigeria Affects All Faiths, Not a Religious War

The Presidency has clarified that the ongoing insecurity in Nigeria is a national security challenge affecting citizens of all religions, dismissing claims that violence is part of a religious war.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Chieftaincy Matters, Abba Tijjani Hashim, emphasized that framing the crisis as religious persecution could deepen divisions and undermine national unity. He noted that the government is engaging with religious leaders to promote peace, tolerance, and cohesion across communities.

READ ALSO:

• Ghana Arrests 53 Nigerians in Major Cybercrime Crackdown, Rescues 44 Victims in Accra
• Kaduna Church Abductions: Gunmen Set Motorcycle Condition for Victims’ Release
• Wizkid, Seun Kuti Clash Online as “Bigger Than Fela” Claim Sparks Fan Backlash

The clarification comes amid widespread discussions following attacks on worshippers in parts of northern and central Nigeria, including the recent Kaduna church abductions, which saw over 150 people kidnapped. While these incidents drew international attention, the Presidency stressed that terrorism, banditry, and armed attacks affect both Muslim and Christian communities, highlighting the complex and multifaceted nature of Nigeria’s security challenges.

Analysts point out that factors such as economic inequality, governance gaps, and weak law enforcement, rather than religion, primarily drive the country’s insecurity. Religious and civil society groups have also echoed calls for national unity and collective efforts to tackle violence while safeguarding all citizens.

The government’s statement underscores the commitment to address insecurity in a non-partisan and inclusive manner, reinforcing that no faith group is targeted exclusively and that solutions require cooperation across religious and regional divides.

Presidency Clarifies: Insecurity in Nigeria Affects All Faiths, Not a Religious War