The Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa’Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS) of Nigeria, under the leadership of Sheikh Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, has expressed deep concern over the recent diplomatic tension between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Government of the United States of America, following false and misleading reports alleging a so-called “Christian genocide” in the country.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, JIBWIS stated that such an allegation is unfounded and dangerous, warning that it could inflame divisions within the nation. The organization emphasized that Nigeria’s security challenges such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence are not religiously motivated, but rather rooted in criminality, economic hardship, and weak governance structures.
JIBWIS stressed that both Muslims and Christians have suffered equally from these crises, describing the “Christian genocide” claim as false, divisive, and harmful to national unity and peace. The organization condemned any attempt to distort the reality of Nigeria’s situation for political or international interests.
The Islamic body further called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other Christian leaders to publicly distance themselves from such politically motivated allegations. It said that all religious leaders in the country must take collective responsibility to protect the truth and prevent the manipulation of faith for political or foreign advantage.
JIBWIS also urged the United States Government to ensure its policies and actions toward Nigeria are based on verified, evidence-based reports, while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty. It advised the U.S. to focus on capacity building in peacebuilding, counterterrorism, and human protection, rather than relying on one-sided or biased sources of information.
Similarly, JIBWIS called on civil society organizations, human rights monitors, and research institutions to ensure that their reports are factual, transparent, and data-driven, warning that the publication of false or exaggerated figures only promotes division and global misunderstanding. The group also appealed to journalists and social media users to avoid spreading unverified information or using inflammatory language that could fuel hatred and tension.
Sheikh Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, who signed the statement, extended condolences to all Muslims and Christians who have lost loved ones, property, or means of livelihood due to insecurity across the country, praying that Almighty Allah grants them comfort, reward, and lasting peace.
Finally, JIBWIS commended the Federal Government of Nigeria for its maturity and diplomatic approach in handling the issue, and encouraged continuous dialogue and engagement with the U.S. and other international partners. The organization reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to truth, peace, and interfaith harmony, urging all Nigerians to remain united, patriotic, and hopeful in the face of national challenges.