Human rights advocate and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana (SAN), has sharply criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump for alleging that a "Christian genocide" is taking place in Nigeria. Appearing on Channels Television on November 5, Falana described Trump's remarks as baseless and reflective of his long-standing contempt for Africa. He emphasized that there is no credible evidence supporting the claim that Nigerian Christians are being systematically targeted or killed for their faith.

Falana noted that the narrative of religious persecution promoted by Trump misrepresents the true nature of violence in Nigeria. According to him, the ongoing crises in many regions stem from criminality, economic hardship, and resource-driven disputes, not religious persecution. "Mr. Trump has lied to the whole world by alleging Christian genocide in Nigeria without any evidence to back it up," Falana stated, pointing out that the perpetrators of killings — terrorists, kidnappers, and armed bandits — are motivated by ransom and survival rather than religion.

He explained that even in violence-prone areas such as Benue and Plateau States, most attacks arise from land ownership and grazing conflicts. "Those who are killing there are either killing to expropriate land or to feed their animals," he said, dismissing any claim that religion is the primary motive behind the unrest.

The veteran lawyer advised the Nigerian government not to be alarmed by Trump's rhetoric or threats of military action. Instead, he urged authorities to focus on addressing internal security lapses and systemic failures that allow such violence to persist. "The government must look inward and correct its mistakes," he stressed.

Falana further argued that Trump's comments were not only misleading but also part of a larger geopolitical agenda aimed at influencing African affairs. He asserted that Trump's hostility toward Africa and his fixation on global power rivalry—particularly with China—are key motivations behind such divisive statements.

In conclusion, Falana warned that Nigeria must be cautious of foreign propaganda disguised as concern for human rights. He called for a united national approach to insecurity, free from external manipulation and political bias.

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