The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has lashed out at US President Donald Trump over his claim that Christians are being killed in Nigeria.
Speaking on Sunday at his palace after marking his 82nd
birthday, Akiolu described the comment as incorrect and capable of creating
unnecessary tension, insisting such remarks misrepresent Nigeria’s reality and
unfairly portray the nation.
The monarch said that Nigerians of different faiths had
coexisted peacefully for decades, noting that both Christians and Muslims share
common communities, celebrations, and challenges, reinforcing unity despite
occasional security issues.
The traditional ruler stated that criminal activities and
terrorism in parts of the country are not directed at any religion but are acts
of misguided individuals and groups, appealing to international leaders to
verify information before issuing official statements, stressing that careless
comments can damage Nigeria’s global image.
Akiolu, who added that national unity remains essential,
warned that Nigeria cannot afford internal division at a critical period of
economic and security reforms, calling on Nigerians to maintain peaceful
coexistence and avoid allowing religion, ethnicity, or politics to create
unnecessary conflict.
“This comment by the US President is not only incorrect but
can create unnecessary tension in Nigeria, something we cannot afford now.
“I also want to use this opportunity to call for Lagos to be
granted special recognition because of its huge population and central role in
Nigeria’s economy.
“The city had served as an economic powerhouse since the
colonial era and continues to shoulder national responsibilities that demand
federal support,” he said.
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