Abuja, Nigeria – December 13, 2025 (Clarion Newschannel) – President Bola Tinubu has once again strongly refuted claims of religious genocide in Nigeria, emphasizing that the nation’s security challenges stem from terrorism, criminality, and extremism rather than targeted persecution of any faith group. The remarks come against a backdrop of heightened international scrutiny and a domestic surge in demand for alternative protection services following the withdrawal of police escorts from very important persons (VIPs).
Speaking on December 12 at the opening of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT) 8th Biennial Conference in Abuja, President Tinubu, represented by Attorney General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi, declared: “As President, I reiterate with all sense of responsibility and fidelity to the constitution that there is no Christian genocide in Nigeria, and there is no Muslim genocide in Nigeria.”
He described the insecurity as “terrorism driven by criminality and extremism,” rooted in historical, economic, and criminal factors, not religious divisions. Tinubu noted that both Christians and Muslims have fallen victim to such violence and stressed the government’s commitment to national unity, religious freedom, and protecting all citizens regardless of faith, ethnicity, or location.
The President’s statement directly addresses recent U.S. designations of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged Christian persecution, a move initiated under President Donald Trump. Tinubu called such allegations “unfounded” and potentially divisive, pledging to reinvigorate security architecture while urging faith-based organizations to help reinforce societal resilience.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s ongoing battle with insecurity has triggered a significant shift in VIP protection protocols. Following President Tinubu’s November directive to withdraw police officers from private escort duties—freeing over 11,000 personnel for frontline roles—there has been a marked increase in requests for security from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and private firms.
Reports indicate DSS officers have been lobbying influential figures for deployment as personal guards, while the NSCDC has faced overwhelming demand, turning down requests from at least five senators due to manpower constraints. Private security companies have reported unprecedented surges in inquiries for armed escorts, with some firms noting daily increases since the policy announcement.
The police withdrawal aims to redirect resources toward combating rising kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism, particularly in northern and central regions. VIPs requiring protection are now directed to seek armed personnel from the NSCDC, though experts highlight challenges in capacity and training for this expanded role.
As Nigeria grapples with these intertwined issues of security and perception, President Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to foster an inclusive and secure nation.
Clarion Newschannel continues to follow these developments closely.
Tinubu Firmly Rejects Genocide Allegations as VIPs Scramble for New Security Amid Police Withdrawal
