“The notion of a ‘Christian genocide’ in Nigeria is a dangerously reductive distortion.”
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (retd), has warned against the rising diplomatic tension between Nigeria and the United States, describing the “Christian genocide” narrative as false and dangerous. According to Premium Times reporting, Buratai issued the warning in a Facebook article titled “Mutual Security, Shared Prosperity: A Strategic Path Beyond the US-Nigeria Stalemate.”
He cautioned that the ongoing confrontation, driven by threats of foreign military intervention, represents “a perilous crossroads” that could either trigger a “catastrophic miscalculation” or strengthen both nations through partnership. Buratai argued that the notion of a “Christian genocide” was “a dangerously reductive distortion,” noting that any U.S. action based on misinformation would be a “strategic blunder.”
He urged the U.S. to embrace “private collaboration” through verified intelligence sharing instead of coercion, warning that militaristic pressure would “push Nigeria closer to China and Russia.” Buratai also called on the Tinubu administration to launch a global diplomatic campaign to counter misinformation and unite Nigerians against external threats.
“The threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty demands that every citizen, Muslim and Christian alike, rally behind the government,” he said.