The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has refuted claims of an ongoing Christian genocide in the country, describing such reports as misleading and influenced by foreign interests.
The clarification follows comments by US comedian and HBO host Bill Maher, who alleged that Islamists in Nigeria were “systematically killing Christians,” claiming over 100,000 deaths and the burning of 18,000 churches since 2009. Similarly, US Senator Ted Cruz accused Nigerian officials of “ignoring and even facilitating” mass killings of Christians, saying he has introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act to impose sanctions on those responsible.
Also, US lawmaker Riley Moore urged the US Secretary of State to classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern and suspend arms sales until the government shows commitment to protecting Christians.
However, the Nigerian Presidency dismissed the allegations, stating there is no religious war in the country.
Responding, CAN’s Director of National Issues and Social Welfare, Abimbola Ayuba, acknowledged that killings were occurring but insisted they were not targeted at Christians alone. “The pattern of violence has not followed a religious line,” he said. “In some Christian-dominated states, it may appear so, but insurgents have also killed Muslims during early morning prayers and attacked mosques.”
He cautioned Nigerians against appealing to foreign governments, saying such actions could harm the nation’s image and economy.
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