The Association of Yoruba Traditional Leaders/Obas in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has issued a unified statement addressing recent claims of Christian genocide in Nigeria, the country’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), and comments made by the U.S. President Donald Trump.
In a joint statement signed by the General Secretary, Alhaji Abdulrahim Juma Yusuf Alao, on behalf of the Chairman, Alhaji Muritala Sani Adeleke, Sarkin Yorubawan Funtua, alongside the Executive Council and General Assembly of the Association
the Association emphasized that Nigeria’s current security challenges are broad-based and affect citizens across all regions, religions, and social classes. It stressed that the ongoing violence is driven by criminality rather than ethnic or religious motivations.
The Association commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led Administration and security agencies for their ongoing efforts to combat these threats and expressed confidence that, with continued public cooperation and prayers, Nigeria will overcome the forces undermining its peace and stability.
Addressing recent allegations of a targeted Christian genocide in Nigeria, the Association categorically denied the existence of any deliberate or state-sponsored plot against adherents of any religion.
According to the statement, the violence recorded in parts of the country is perpetrated by criminal elements and must be condemned uniformly, irrespective of whether the victims are Christians, Muslims, or members of any other group.
The Association also acknowledged the concerns expressed by former U.S. President Donald Trump about Nigeria’s security situation, expressing appreciation for the attention but emphasizing that such views must be grounded in accurate, balanced understanding of the country’s complex security realities.
Regarding Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), the Association maintained that while international interest in Nigeria’s stability is welcome, unilateral labels must be based on verifiable facts rather than misinterpretations. It reiterated that Nigeria values constructive partnerships with friendly nations, including the United States, but insisted that such cooperation must be rooted in mutual respect, collaboration, and adherence to the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference as articulated in the UN Charter.
The Association further called for unity among Nigerians, urging citizens across ethnic, religious, and political lines to stand together in confronting the nation’s security challenges. It also urged both local and international commentators to speak responsibly on Nigerian affairs, stressing that inaccurate or sensational statements only heighten tensions in the country.
The traditional rulers urged all levels of government and security agencies to intensify and better coordinate their efforts to restore peace nationwide.
