Kidnapping, Killings in Nigeria Not Religious, Says FG

The Federal Government has clarified that Nigeria’s current security challenges, including kidnappings and killings, are not motivated by religion, stressing that comprehensive efforts are underway to tackle terrorism and violent extremism nationwide.

According a report by PUNCH, the attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja while briefing journalists after a closed-door meeting with a United States Congressman and the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the Federal Government to present its perspective on terrorism and insecurity in Nigeria, while allowing the visiting US delegation to assess the situation firsthand.

“This meeting is about the issue of terrorism going on in the country, and it allows us to explain our side of the story. We have explained this in Washington, and I am glad they are here to see things for themselves,” Fagbemi said.

He emphasized that while Nigeria faces substantial security challenges, they are not religiously driven. “What is important is to clarify that even though we have challenges in Nigeria, it is not a religious problem. The government is doing its utmost to address these security issues,” he added.

Fagbemi also highlighted the role of the Ministry of Justice in prosecuting terrorism- and extremism-related cases. Between 2017 and 2025, the government secured 860 convictions and recorded 891 acquittals, demonstrating adherence to due process.

“We do not arrest and detain indiscriminately. Those with no connection to terrorism are released, while those against whom there is evidence are prosecuted in court. The judiciary then decides on guilt or innocence,” he explained.

He noted that the visiting US delegation met with various security and government agencies, civil society organizations, and religious groups to gain a broad understanding of Nigeria’s security landscape.

Fagbemi urged the public not to exaggerate the situation, reassuring that while security challenges exist, they are not rooted in religion. “Things are not as heinous as they are portrayed. We have problems in Nigeria, but they are not religious,” he said.

PUNCH