In response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent declaration threatening military action in Nigeria “to protect Christians,” a Nigerian clergyman, Pastor Okezie J. Atani has cautioned against such divisive rhetoric, emphasizing that terrorism in Nigeria affects people of all faiths without discrimination.
The statement noted that while attacks have hit various parts of the country, Muslims in the North have borne the greatest casualties. “Terrorism impacts people of all religions indiscriminately, but the truth is that Muslims in Northern Nigeria have suffered far more deaths and displacement than Christians,” the statement read.
It further warned that any claim of intervention solely to protect Christians raises deep suspicions and risks worsening religious divisions in the country. “The North is predominantly Muslim and serves as the epicenter of the insurgency. Those who genuinely care about peace must acknowledge this reality, not exploit it,” it added.
The commentator called on Northern leaders, Islamic scholars, and political figures to speak up boldly and present the truth about the situation. “The time for silence is over. The best time for Northern leaders and Muslims to speak up is NOW! We must not allow foreign actors to misrepresent our reality or turn our national pain into a religious agenda,” he said.
He further urged the Nigerian government to intensify efforts against terrorism with fairness and impartiality, ensuring equal protection for all citizens regardless of their faith or ethnicity.
“The fight against terrorism must unite us, not divide us. Every Nigerian life — Christian or Muslim — deserves the same value and protection,” the statement concluded. View, More,
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