Favour Raphael
The Federal Government has dismissed as “false, baseless, and divisive” claims by some international platforms that terrorists in Nigeria are targeting Christians in a systematic genocide.
In a statement on Sunday, the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the portrayal of Nigeria’s security challenges as a deliberate attack on a single religious group misrepresents reality.
“While Nigeria faces security challenges, including terrorism, suggesting a systematic campaign against Christians is inaccurate and harmful,” Idris said. He emphasised that terrorist activities affect all Nigerians regardless of faith.
The minister further highlighted the government’s commitment to tackling terrorism, noting that over 13,543 terrorists were neutralised and nearly 10,000 hostages rescued in military operations across the country.
Idris also announced the recent capture of the top leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan (ANSARU), Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate, including Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a), self-styled Emir of ANSARU, and Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Mallam Mamuda), Abu Bara’s Chief of Staff and Deputy.
“These achievements underscore the effectiveness of our security forces and disprove claims that Nigeria tolerates religiously motivated terrorism,” he said.
The minister reiterated that Nigeria is committed to protecting all citizens and continues to collaborate with international partners to combat terrorism.
The minister urged the international media and commentators to avoid sensationalism and support Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism and criminality.
