The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has faulted recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who claimed that Christians were being targeted and killed in Nigeria. The monarch described the statement as “incorrect, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary tension” in the country.
Akiolu spoke on Sunday at his palace in Lagos during a brief ceremony marking his 82nd birthday. He said such remarks from global leaders could misrepresent Nigeria’s reality and damage its image internationally.
According to the traditional ruler, Nigerians of different faiths — Muslims, Christians, and traditional worshippers have lived together peacefully for decades, sharing communities, celebrations, and challenges. He noted that, despite isolated cases of violence, Nigerians have continued to demonstrate tolerance and unity.
“This comment by the U.S. President is not only incorrect but can create unnecessary tension in Nigeria, something we cannot afford now,” Akiolu said.
He explained that criminal activities and terrorism in parts of the country were not religiously motivated, but the actions of misguided individuals and groups who take advantage of weak security and economic hardship.
“The problems we face are not about religion. Those causing insecurity are criminals, not Muslims or Christians,” he said. “International leaders should verify information before making official statements. Careless words from powerful people can mislead the world and hurt Nigeria’s reputation.”
Akiolu highlighted that national unity remains critical to Nigeria’s development, warning that the country cannot survive internal division at a time when it is undergoing economic and security reforms. He urged Nigerians to remain calm, promote peace, and avoid letting politics, religion, or ethnicity divide them.
“Nigeria cannot afford internal division at this point. We must continue to live together as one people,” he stressed.
The Oba also used the occasion to call for special recognition for Lagos State, given its massive population and central role in Nigeria’s economic survival.
“Lagos deserves special recognition because of its huge population and importance to Nigeria’s economy. The city has served as an economic powerhouse since the colonial era and continues to shoulder national responsibilities that require federal support,” he added.
The monarch’s remarks came amid growing international attention on Nigeria’s internal security situation. Over the years, some foreign leaders and rights groups have accused Nigerian authorities of failing to protect minority communities, especially Christians in parts of the North.
However, many Nigerian officials and community leaders have rejected the narrative of a religious war, insisting that insecurity in the country is driven by terrorism, banditry, and economic inequality, not faith-based persecution.
Akiolu’s intervention adds to the voices of Nigerian leaders who have repeatedly cautioned against foreign misrepresentation of the country’s internal challenges. In recent months, the federal government and several governors have also appealed to the international community to rely on verified information and avoid narratives that could heighten divisions among Nigerians.
Reacting to the development, a political analyst in Lagos, Dr. Kunle Adebajo, said the Oba’s message was timely.
The Oba of Lagos, a respected figure in the South-West, is known for his outspoken views on national unity and good governance. His latest comments highlight growing concern among Nigerian leaders about how international narratives could affect internal stability.
“Nigeria is not a failed state, and our people, Christians and Muslims are brothers and sisters. We must protect that bond and prove to the world that peace and unity remain our strength.”
