A coalition of Islamic scholars and religious leaders from across Northern Nigeria has publicly rejected claims of a “Christian genocide” in the country, describing the allegations as misleading and divisive. Following a Special Northern Ulamah Summit held in Kaduna on Wednesday, the scholars issued a communiqué that called for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to publicly discredit the allegation to foster inter-religious unity. These assertions come after US Senator Ted Cruz introduced a bill seeking to protect Christians in Nigeria from alleged religious persecution and genocide, a claim the Nigerian government and National Assembly have dismissed.
The communiqué was jointly signed by representatives of leading Islamic organisations, including Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), and the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), and featured signatories such as Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, Prof. Sheikh Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, and Sheikh Abdullahi Bala Lau. The scholars appealed to the media and global actors to promote accurate reporting that supports national cohesion instead of sowing discord.
While expressing deep concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, which includes threats from terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence, the scholars warned that the country’s fragile unity is under increasing pressure. They urged authorities to employ all lawful means to restore peace and stability across the nation.
The Ulamas also condemned attempts to ignite ethnic discord, particularly between the Hausa and Fulani communities, describing these as “orchestrated attempts by certain elements to sow division.” They reaffirmed their commitment to partnering with the government through peace advocacy, moral reorientation, and community mediation to support ongoing security efforts.
Furthermore, the scholars advised the government to recalibrate its peace-building approach in regions ravaged by conflict. They stressed that reconciliation must be comprehensive and inclusive, moving beyond elite negotiations and military crackdowns to address the needs of all stakeholders: victims, bandits, and communities, while prioritising rehabilitation, reintegration, and rebuilding affected areas. The scholars concluded their communiqué by expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemning Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza as a grave violation of humanity and international law.
