Tinubu Fires Back at US Lawmaker’s ‘Christian Genocide’ Claim, Vows to Unite Nigeria Across Faiths

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed allegations by United States Senator Ted Cruz, who accused Nigeria of presiding over a “Christian genocide,” describing the claim as unfounded and unfair.

Speaking on Saturday at the burial of Nana Lydia Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, Tinubu declared that his administration is unwaveringly committed to religious harmony, justice, and inclusivity.

Addressing worshippers at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos, Plateau State, the President pledged to heal divisions and unite Nigerians across ethnic and religious lines.

“I have a mission to unite this country, ensure its prosperity, and we are making progress. As leaders, we must manage religious issues for the benefit of all. In my own family, I have a strong Muslim background, but I married a Christian — a pastor — and I have never forced her to change her faith. That is the Nigeria I believe in,” Tinubu said.

The President’s remarks come in response to Senator Cruz’s push for the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act, a controversial bill seeking sanctions against Nigerian government officials accused of complicity in attacks on Christians. If passed, the bill could trigger visa bans and asset freezes for targeted leaders.

The proposal has sparked global debate, with Nigerian officials condemning it as “baseless propaganda” aimed at discrediting the Tinubu administration. Critics also argue that it risks inflaming tensions rather than promoting peace.

Northern Christian leaders present at the event welcomed Tinubu’s assurances, noting that his message of unity was timely, especially amid rising concerns over insecurity and mistrust among Nigeria’s diverse communities.

With international attention now fixed on Nigeria’s handling of religious freedom, the President’s words are being closely watched — both at home and abroad — as a test of his resolve to lead with fairness in one of the world’s most religiously diverse nations.