Nigeria's Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, has firmly rejected allegations that Christians are facing systematic genocide in the country.
Official Statement at Traditional Coronation
The senior advocate made these clarifications on Saturday, November 15, 2025, during the coronation ceremony of the 21st Elerin of Erin-Ile, Oba Jimoh Adebowale Adesoye. The significant traditional event took place in Erin-Ile, located within Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Fagbemi explicitly stated that no religious group is currently experiencing persecution in Nigeria. He emphasized that the violent incidents recorded across various parts of the nation affect people regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
Violence Affects All Communities
The Attorney General provided specific examples to support his position, noting that predominantly Muslim states like Zamfara and Sokoto have repeatedly suffered from severe killings and banditry attacks. "Killings are happening in Zamfara, Sokoto and other Muslim-dominated areas," Fagbemi stated. "That is not to say the situation is okay, but it shows clearly that violence is not targeted at any religion."
While acknowledging the country's security challenges, Fagbemi maintained that the Federal Government is making significant progress in combating terrorism. He assured Nigerians that authorities are intensifying efforts to curb killings, banditry, and other criminal activities nationwide.
Government Commitment and Public Patience
The Minister urged citizens to reject any suggestions of religious-targeted genocide and expressed confidence in the government's approach to security matters. "We should reject any insinuation that there is a Christian genocide in the country," he asserted. "The government is taking all necessary steps to ensure that killings and banditry are nipped in the bud."
Fagbemi also called for public patience with President Bola Tinubu's administration, explaining that current reforms aim to establish a stronger foundation for national development. He acknowledged the present difficulties but expressed optimism, noting that "there is light at the end of the tunnel."
The coronation ceremony also featured remarks from Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Hon Ibrahim Bata, who emphasized the importance of traditional institutions as governance partners.
New monarch Oba Jimoh Adebowale Adesoye committed his reign to Erin-Ile's progress, with particular focus on youth development in agriculture, healthcare, food security, and security matters. The event culminated with the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, presenting the beaded crown to the new traditional ruler.
