Prominent Southern Islamic scholars dismiss claims of Christian genocide, urging Nigerians to prioritise unity and resist divisive foreign influences.

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Prominent Islamic scholars from Southern Nigeria have dismissed claims of a so-called Christian genocide in the country, warning that such assertions are misleading and capable of deepening national division.

They made their position known on Wednesday at the Special Southern Ulammah Summit held in Ibadan and organised by the Congregation of Southern Nigerian Ulammah. The event, themed “Confronting the Economic and Security Challenges Facing Islamic Ummah in Southern Nigeria,” drew clerics, academics and Muslim leaders from across the region.

Among the notable attendees were former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Dimeji Bankole; Asiwaju Musulumi of Oyo State, Alhaji Mutiu Oladejo; Professor Afis Oladosu; Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Dr Ridwan Jamiu; Professor Abideen Olaiya; and FASON’s National Ameer, Shaykh Tajudeen Abdul Kareem.

Other scholars present included Sheikh Ahmad Gumi; Chairman of the Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Kunle Sanni; Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Professor Ibrahim Usman; Dr Nurudeen Asunogie; and the Chief Host, Sheikh Isa Akindele Salaudeen.

Speakers at the summit insisted that the genocide narrative is not supported by facts, noting that Muslims have equally suffered casualties in violent attacks nationwide. They emphasised that terrorism has no foundation in Islam and urged Nigerians to resist divisive external influences.

In his welcome address, Sheikh Isa Akindele Salaudeen said Muslims in the South face mounting economic and security pressures and stressed the need for collective wisdom, cooperation and renewed community engagement.

Professor Afis Oladosu traced the roots of insurgency to around 2009, noting that terrorists do not discriminate based on religion. He urged clerics to avoid manipulation by individuals seeking to exploit religious sentiment.

Sheikh Ahmad Gumi accused the United States and former President Donald Trump of promoting rhetoric aimed at dividing Nigerians for economic reasons. He warned that foreign interests may attempt to exploit mineral-rich areas like Zamfara by widening internal fault lines.

Also speaking, Professor Ibrahim Oreagba highlighted Nigeria’s vast opportunities in the Halal economy and Islamic finance, while Hon. Dimeji Bankole reaffirmed that Nigeria’s unity is non-negotiable and pledged support for efforts that advance peace and national cohesion.

Source: The Nation