Senate Postpones Debate On Alleged Christian Genocide in Nigeria
The Senate on Tuesday postponed debate on the controversy surrounding allegations of genocide against Christians in Nigeria.
The issue gained international attention after President Donald Trump declared Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern, accusing the Federal Government of allowing the killing of Christians.
Following Trump’s statement, U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed on X that his department was “preparing for action.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, however, rejected Trump’s claims, affirming that Nigeria remains a democracy grounded in constitutional guarantees of freedom of religion and belief.
During Tuesday’s plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio noted that Nigerians were eager for the Senate’s position on the matter but said the chamber would not act until it had received a proper briefing from the federal government.
He stated, “Nigerians want us to take a position. But we won’t take a position on that until we know what the government is doing about it.”
Akpabio also addressed calls from social media users urging him to respond directly to Trump. “Who am I to reply Trump?” he asked, stressing that the Senate can only deliberate on issues formally presented in the chamber.
He then put the question to a voice vote on whether the matter should be scheduled for future debate, and the majority voted in favour.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) reacted sharply to Akpabio’s remark, insisting that Nigeria is a sovereign nation and that the Senate should not hesitate to speak on such matters.
“We’re not afraid. Don’t be scared. I am a Nigerian. I am a parliamentarian. Nigeria is a sovereign nation,” he said.
Akpabio maintained that Trump’s statement did not reflect the realities in Nigeria, highlighting that the country remains united despite its challenges. “All we need is peace,” he said, warning against individuals and groups who take internal matters abroad, creating the false impression that Christians and Muslims are at war in Nigeria.
The Senate President also cautioned against the spread of misinformation on social media and urged security agencies to monitor online platforms to prevent “their breaking news” from destabilising the country.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
