The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has dismissed circulating claims that Christians are being deliberately targeted or killed in Nigeria, insisting that no religious community is under persecution.
Speaking on Saturday during an event in Erin-Ile, located in Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Fagbemi said suggestions of a coordinated campaign against Christians misrepresent the wider security situation across the country.
“There is no Christian genocide in Nigeria. There is no persecution of any religion, sect or ethnic nationality,” he said.
He explained that violent attacks have affected various regions irrespective of religious composition, noting that states such as Zamfara and Sokoto—both predominantly Muslim—continue to suffer repeated incidents of killings and banditry.
“Killings are happening in Zamfara, Sokoto and other Muslim-dominated areas. That is not to say the situation is okay, but it shows clearly that violence is not targeted at any religion,” he added.
While acknowledging the nation’s security difficulties, Fagbemi insisted that the Federal Government is “winning the war against terrorism” and stepping up measures to confront banditry, kidnappings, and other criminal threats nationwide. He urged Nigerians not to accept narratives claiming religious persecution.
“We should reject any insinuation that there is a Christian genocide in the country. The government is taking all necessary steps to ensure that killings and banditry are nipped in the bud,” he stated.
The AGF also appealed for patience with the economic and administrative reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, describing them as necessary investments for a more stable and prosperous future.
“We all know the present situation is not rosy, but there is light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Fagbemi’s comments follow recent accusations by US Senator Ted Cruz, who alleged that Nigerian authorities were enabling widespread violence against Christians and allowing the destruction of thousands of churches. Also, US President Donald Trump reportedly directed the Pentagon to outline a possible military action plan for Nigeria after warning that Christianity faced an “existential threat” in the country. The Federal Government has rejected these allegations.
AGF Commends Emergence of New Elerin
Fagbemi also applauded the appointment of the new Elerin of Erin-Ile, saying the monarch’s leadership and experience would be valuable to the community’s progress. He encouraged residents to support the new traditional ruler as he begins his reign.
Representing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ibrahim Bata, emphasized that the traditional institution remains a critical part of effective governance in the state.
Oba Jimoh Adesoye, the newly installed Elerin, pledged to focus his rule on expanding development across agriculture, healthcare, food production, and security. He noted that young people—who make up roughly 65 percent of the productive population—would be central to his plans. The ceremony concluded with the formal presentation of the beaded crown by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
What You Should Know
Lateef Fagbemi’s remarks come at a time when Nigeria’s security landscape continues to attract global attention, particularly from Western policymakers concerned about religious freedom.
His position reflects the Federal Government’s long-standing argument that insecurity is driven by criminality, not religious persecution. The AGF’s comments also aim to counter rising international pressure, especially following statements from figures like Ted Cruz and Donald Trump.
Meanwhile, the installation of the new Elerin of Erin-Ile highlights the ongoing influence of traditional rulers in community leadership, local stability, and grassroots development.
