By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) has strongly criticised a recent bill and public narratives attributed to elements within the United States Congress alleging a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, describing the claims as false and dangerously misleading.
In a press statement issued on February 15, 2026, and signed by its Secretary General, Nafiu Baba Ahmad, the Council dismissed assertions that Nigeria is witnessing a state-sponsored religious extermination.
It maintained that while the country faces serious security challenges, including terrorism, banditry and organised criminal violence, such crimes are not driven by any religious agenda.
The Council expressed concern that the alleged U.S. legislative position appeared to rely on what it described as sensational and unreliable data, including reports referenced by The New York Times and commentary from individuals it claimed lacked expertise in Nigeria’s security dynamics.
It warned that reducing Nigeria’s complex security situation to a genocide narrative was simplistic and irresponsible.
The SCSN also condemned what it termed a “reckless call” by Nigeria’s First Lady for increased U.S. bombing in Northern Nigeria, arguing that foreign military bombardment of civilian-populated areas would lead to catastrophic humanitarian consequences.
While affirming that it is not opposed to genuine international assistance, including technical, intelligence, economic and humanitarian support, the Council rejected what it described as ill-informed and punitive military approaches.
On the reported targeting of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in the U.S. bill, the Council described the move as unjust and biased. It argued that singling out Kwankwaso among Nigeria’s political class reflected scapegoating rather than fairness.
According to the Council, the senator’s opposition to Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) may have contributed to his alleged targeting.
The Council further reiterated its condemnation of terrorism and criminal violence in Nigeria and globally, stating that both Muslim and Christian communities have suffered from insecurity, with Northern Muslim communities bearing a disproportionate impact from insurgency and banditry.
Calling for restraint and due diligence, the SCSN urged the United States government and its legislature to engage credible Nigerian institutions and avoid narratives that could inflame tensions.
The statement concluded, "Nigeria requires sincere partnership grounded in mutual respect, not misinformation that undermines peace and coexistence,”
