The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has accused the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and some of its members of spreading false claims that Christians are being persecuted in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by **Imam Haroun Muhammad Eze**, Deputy National Legal Adviser, the NSCIA said the allegations — recently circulated by some international media — were “baseless and aimed at discrediting Nigeria.”
The Council commended government agencies for countering the narrative but faulted them for failing to name those behind it, alleging that “some elements within CAN” were responsible.
“The false claims of religious persecution are part of a deliberate attempt to sow division and gain foreign sympathy,” the statement said.
Citing reports from the U.S. State Department and the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, the NSCIA noted that both Muslims and Christians have been victims of terrorism in Nigeria.
It also criticized recent comments by CAN officials, accusing them of “promoting Islamophobia” and warned that such rhetoric could endanger national unity.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to peace and coexistence, saying it “believes in one and indivisible Nigeria” and will continue to work toward national stability.
