Christian Killings: Fury As Nigeria Issues Two Varying Replies To Trump

Nigeria’s government is facing scrutiny after two different press releases emerged in response to comments by U.S. President Donald Trump accusing Nigeria of witnessing mass killings of Christians and calling for the country to be designated a “Country of Particular Concern”.

The first statement, issued Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged the U.S. remarks, saying Nigeria “has noted” the comments and remains committed to tackling violent extremism. It emphasised unity, diversity, and Nigeria’s partnership with the U.S.

“The United States of America has made its statement on religious freedom. Nigeria has noted,” the statement read. It added that Nigeria would “continue to defend all citizens, irrespective of race, creed, or religion,” while praising the armed forces and insisting the nation remains a “God-fearing country” that celebrates tolerance and inclusion.

However, hours later, a second version carrying the same reference number and spokesperson signature was shared online by Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga. That version directly referenced Trump by name and denied claims of large-scale Christian killings.

“While Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, these claims do not reflect the situation on the ground,” it stated, insisting that Nigerians “of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.”

The document reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to fighting terrorism and strengthening interfaith harmony, noting Nigeria would continue engagement with the U.S. “to deepen mutual understanding” on security issues.

The appearance of two different statements with the same reference number triggered debate on social media, with many citizens demanding clarity on the government’s official position.

@vitusihejirika wrote: “Why are there different press releases with the same reference no: MFA/PR/2025/103?”

@OlorogunErnest said: “Sir, you should be posting a press release from President Tinubu and not that of a spokesperson. National politics remains a major distraction to Tinubu’s government.”

@Neuton0001 challenged the government’s claim of peaceful coexistence: “Maybe they should take that press release to families in Plateau, Benue, and Southern Kaduna. It’s easy to deny reality from the comfort of Abuja while the nation bleeds.”

@tola2tees added: “This press release lacks substance. In today’s information age, denial is not enough. There is abundant photographic, video, and geographical evidence.”

@kingslchbk stated: “A government that openly associates with terrorists and refuses to bring murderers to justice has no moral authority to accuse a foreign power. America is not our saviour, but Nigeria is the problem.”

@Ifeanyichukvu observed: “From the tone of the message, it seems as if the FG is trying hard not to offend Trump.”

@undertwentie questioned the document controversy: “Same reference, different messages from the same signature. Help our confusion — we want to know which is which.”

@stanleychika191 urged action: “What will it take our president to stop kidnapping on federal roads and killings in the North and South-East? Not everything must be politics.”

The uproar also revived a 2014 post by President Tinubu condemning killings of Christians during the Jonathan administration. In the post, he wrote:
“The slaughtering of Christian worshippers is strongly condemnable. It calls to question the competence of Jonathan to protect Nigerians.”
— Tinubu, January 29, 2014

Several users referenced the post to question the consistency of the government’s current stance.

Trump’s comments, made during a policy forum, accused Nigeria of failing to protect Christians amid ongoing insecurity, particularly in northern and central states. Nigeria has long grappled with violent attacks linked to banditry, extremist groups, and armed militias across various regions, with thousands of civilians killed in recent years.

While the federal government maintains it does not tolerate religious persecution and continues to confront violent groups, critics argue more transparency, justice, and stronger protection mechanisms are urgently needed.

Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG