The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has firmly rejected allegations of a so-called “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, calling the claims false, divisive, and a threat to regional stability.
In a communiqué issued on Tuesday, November 4, the regional bloc said such narratives are “deliberate attempts to sow division, fuel insecurity, and undermine social harmony” across West Africa.
ECOWAS clarified that extremist violence in the subregion, including Nigeria, affects people of all faiths — Muslims, Christians, and followers of traditional religions alike. “As independent reports have shown, terrorist-related violence does not discriminate based on religion, gender, ethnicity, or age,” the statement read.
The organisation dismissed any suggestion that militant groups are targeting a single faith or that genocide is taking place. Instead, ECOWAS urged the United Nations and international partners to disregard these claims and focus on supporting member states in their fight against terrorism.
The bloc emphasised that such “false and dangerous claims” only deepen insecurity and erode social cohesion within communities. It also appealed to the global community to continue standing with West African nations in their collective battle against terrorism and violent extremism.
ECOWAS’ statement follows recent remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened possible military intervention and suspension of aid to Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christians.
