Oba Akiolu fires at Trump over ‘Christian genocide’ claim in Nigeria

The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has faulted U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent claim that Christians are being killed in Nigeria, describing the statement as false and misleading.

Speaking on Sunday at his palace during his 82nd birthday celebration, the monarch said Trump’s comments were capable of causing unnecessary tension and misrepresenting Nigeria before the international community, Vanguard disclosed.

Akiolu noted that Nigerians of different religions have coexisted peacefully for decades, sharing communities, celebrations, and challenges. He stressed that acts of violence in parts of the country are not religiously motivated but the handiwork of misguided individuals and criminal groups.

“The killings and insecurity we sometimes experience are not about religion. Both Christians and Muslims have lived together peacefully for years. We should not allow anyone to divide us,” he said.

The monarch urged world leaders to always verify information before making public statements about Nigeria, warning that careless comments could harm the country’s image.

He also cautioned against internal divisions at a time when Nigeria is undergoing major economic and security reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Oba Akiolu renewed his long-standing call for Lagos to receive special federal recognition, saying the city bears enormous national responsibilities as Nigeria’s commercial hub.

He further appealed to government authorities to ensure that urban renewal projects on Lagos Island do not displace the city’s original residents.

The monarch expressed concern over the decline in sanitation across the state and urged a return to the old practice of house-to-house environmental inspections to promote hygiene and civic discipline.

He also warned political leaders against greed and corruption, reminding them that they would be held accountable for their actions by both God and future generations.

Akiolu concluded by urging Nigerians to remain united and support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying early signs of progress are beginning to show.