Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed claims that Christians are being targeted and killed under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing such allegations as politically motivated and baseless.
Speaking on Channels Television programme on Monday, Wike labeled the narrative of genocide as “politics taken too far” and denied any government-backed religious persecution.
Wike strongly defended the administration, highlighting the religious diversity in key security positions.
“The Inspector-General of Police is a Christian, the Director-General of the Department of State Services is a Christian, and the Chief of Defence Staff is a Christian. Tell me, how can any right-thinking person believe that this government would support the killing of its own people?” he asked.
When questioned about whether opposition forces were behind the genocide narrative, Wike said, “It is very obvious. The opposition knows they lack the strength to challenge the president’s re-election, so they resort to tactics that divide the country. This is one of those attempts.”
He also emphasized that no Nigerian leader, regardless of religion, would take satisfaction in the killings happening in any part of the country.
According to Wike, the government has made significant efforts to combat insecurity, and he urged Nigerians to avoid being swayed by politically driven reports.
Wike’s remarks came in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threats of military action against Nigeria over alleged Christian killings.
Trump, in posts on his Truth Social platform, claimed Christianity faced an “existential threat” in Nigeria and warned that U.S. intervention would be “fast, vicious, and sweet” if the situation persisted.
He also hinted at the possibility of airstrikes or deploying troops, stating, “I envisage a lot of things.”
In response to Trump’s threats, Wike suggested the U.S. president might have been misinformed.
“There could be some misinformation or distortion. It’s unfortunate,” he said.
