Christian and Muslim leaders under the Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace (IDFP) have called on Nigerians to remain calm and avoid actions that could heighten religious tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent allegation of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
In a jointly signed statement by the Forum’s Co-Chairs, Rev. Abainitus Akila Hamman and Dr. Yussuf Yakub Arrigasiyyu, the group warned that the former U.S. president’s remarks carry the potential to inflame an already delicate national atmosphere.
The IDFP said the widespread reactions to Trump’s comment—both within and outside Nigeria—made it necessary for religious leaders to intervene with messages promoting restraint and responsible public discourse.
“We recognise the agony of families who have lost loved ones to violence across various parts of our country. Every death is a tragedy that affects all Nigerians, irrespective of religion or ethnicity,” the statement read.
The Forum urged citizens, religious leaders, and political actors to avoid inflammatory rhetoric, resist any form of retaliation, and prioritise dialogue.
“This is a particularly sensitive period. We appeal to all communities to reject reprisals and embrace dialogue over confrontation,” the clerics advised.
According to the IDFP, unity, justice, and cooperation—not fear or suspicion—are the pathways to resolving Nigeria’s security and social challenges.
“The answers to Nigeria’s problems will not emerge from fear. They will come from collaboration, understanding, and genuine dialogue,” the statement added.
The Forum also appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen justice, fairness, and accountability in its response to insecurity.
“It is the duty of government to ensure every Nigerian is protected, regardless of faith or identity. Lasting peace is rooted in fairness and justice,” the group said.
Reaffirming its position as a coalition of more than 120 Christian and Muslim leaders across the country, the IDFP dismissed any claims of a “Christian genocide” in Gwoza, Borno State, and emphasised its commitment to combating hate speech and promoting interfaith harmony.
“Our diversity must remain a force for healing, understanding, and national progress,” it stated.
The clerics concluded by reminding Nigerians that peace requires intentional effort: “Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of understanding. At this moment, Nigeria must choose unity, dialogue, and hope.”
