The Federal Government has officially rejected allegations by U.S. Senator Ted Cruz accusing Nigeria of orchestrating a genocide against Christians, describing them as “false and baseless.” The Information Ministry, through its spokesperson, dismissed claims that over 52,000 Christians have been killed or 20,000 churches destroyed, calling those figures “absurd” and unsupported by credible evidence.
In contrast, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has voiced support for Senator Cruz’s concerns. CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh affirmed that many Christian communities, especially in the northern region, have experienced severe attacks, loss of lives, and destruction of places of worship. CAN’s statement urged the government and security agencies to respond with urgency, insist equitable protection, and ensure perpetrators are held to account.
Lens News gathered that, Senator Cruz, in a public interview, claimed the violence results from decisions made by specific individuals and that the U.S. is prepared to hold them accountable. He also introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act (S.2747), which seeks to designate Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) and sanction implicated officials.
The FG’s response came swiftly through the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, who rejected the narrative of state complicity. He emphasized that Nigeria is a multi-faith country and that extremist violence affects both Christians and Muslims. He stated that no Nigerian official would willingly side with violent extremists against any religious group.
Amid the disagreement, CAN reaffirmed its demands for transparent justice and protection. It stressed that healing for Nigeria would require acknowledgment, accountability, and rebuilding trust across communities.
