No Christian Persecution in Nigeria — Defence Chief!

No Christian Persecution in Nigeria — Defence Chief!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has refuted recent claims suggesting systematic persecution of Christians in the country, stating that Nigeria’s real security threat is terrorism, not religiously targeted violence.

What We Know:

• General Oluyede made the comments during a press briefing at Defence Headquarters, Abuja, following international media attention sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s threat of military intervention over alleged Christian killings.
• He maintained that security agencies respond to “all threats, regardless of religion or ethnicity,” and that violent actors — including Boko Haram and ISWAP — attack Muslims and Christians alike.
• The Defence Chief accused foreign actors of politicising Nigeria’s internal issues for geopolitical gain.

Quote:

“There is no organised persecution of Christians in Nigeria. What we face is terrorism and banditry — both indiscriminate in their violence.”
— Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff

Why It Matters:

• Counters international narratives framing Nigeria’s conflict as solely religious.
• Reinforces the military’s stance that insecurity is driven by ideological extremism, not sectarian policy.
• Seeks to protect Nigeria’s image amid rising global scrutiny.

What to Watch:

• Reactions from religious leaders and advocacy groups within Nigeria.
• Impact on diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and the U.S.
• Government efforts to enhance intelligence and public communication on terrorism.

Sources:

1. Defence HQ Briefing – Nov. 4, 2025
2. Channels TV – “Defence Chief: No Christian persecution in Nigeria”
3. Punch NG – “Oluyede reacts to Trump’s threat, says Nigeria’s problem is terrorism”

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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