The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has dismissed claims suggesting that Christians are being systematically targeted for genocide in Nigeria. The regional body warned that such allegations are not only misleading but are also capable of deepening insecurity and weakening social unity across the West African region.
In a communiqué issued on Tuesday, ECOWAS explained that various terrorist groups have infiltrated several countries in the region, including Nigeria, and have attacked civilians of different religious and ethnic backgrounds without discrimination.
The statement noted that ongoing conflict-related violence affects Christians, Muslims, and followers of traditional religions alike.
“As independent reports have confirmed over the years, terrorist-related violence does not discriminate on the basis of gender, religion, ethnicity or age,” the communiqué stated.
ECOWAS emphasized that claims suggesting one religious group is being specifically targeted are false and dangerous, urging the international community to treat such narratives with caution.
“ECOWAS strongly rejects these false and dangerous claims that seek to deepen insecurity in communities and weaken social cohesion in the region.”
The organisation called on the United Nations and other global partners to continue supporting West African countries in their efforts to combat terrorism. It stressed the importance of cooperation, unity, and strategic security assistance to help member states confront extremist violence.
The commission’s statement comes amid growing global debate following remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who had publicly warned that the U.S. could withdraw aid or even take military action if the Nigerian government failed to stop what he claimed was the targeted killing of Christians.
ECOWAS’ response adds to a rising number of voices urging the world to avoid framing the crisis in Nigeria as a religious war. Instead, they argue, the conflicts are largely driven by extremist violence, banditry, and local socio-economic factors — not by one faith attacking another.
With insecurity already posing a major threat to stability in West Africa, ECOWAS urged citizens, leaders, and international observers to avoid narratives that could fuel division. Instead, the regional bloc encouraged support for peacebuilding efforts, interfaith dialogue, and collective action against terrorism.
