…….Presidential Spokesperson rejects Western media’s coordinated Christian genocidal claims
Abuja, Nigeria — 16th Oct, 2025
The Spokesperson to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Daniel Bwala, on Wednesday met with the national leadership of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) in Abuja, in a strategic dialogue aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and addressing concerns over security and media narratives about Nigeria.
The PFN President, His Eminence, Rev. Dr. Francis Wale Oke was ably represented by the National Secretary, Rev. Dr. David Bakare. Other PFN officials present included Rev. Steve Dangoma (Deputy National Secretary), Apostle Israel Abam (FCT State Chairman), Rev. Dr. Isaac Oriakhi (Former Vice President), Rev. Dr. Isaac Komolafe (Former State Chairman), Apostle Dr. Uwem Asomugha (Director of Missions/Pilgrimage), Pastor Agbolade Okenla (Chairman AMAC PFN), Apostle Dr. Deji Adekoya (Vice Chairman AMAC), Rev. Max Igbimije (Vice Chairman FCT), and Archbishop Chianson.
Bwala Highlights President Tinubu’s Achievements and Clarifies Misleading Western Reports
In his opening remarks, Dr. Bwala outlined the major triumphs of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the areas of the economy, infrastructure, and security. He decried the false reportage by some Western media outlets and certain U.S. congressmen, who have propagated misleading claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria.
According to him, Nigeria’s diplomatic stance supporting a two-state solution in Gaza has contributed to a recent wave of negative international media attacks.
“We are not in denial of existing security challenges, but we reject the premise that the killings in Nigeria are faith-based or targeted against Christians. In fact, more Muslims have been killed than any other faith group since the Boko Haram insurgency began in 2009,” He said.
He further noted that the meeting was not aimed at changing opinions but at presenting verified government data so that religious bodies could make informed assessments.
PFN Commends Dialogue, Calls for Transparency and Decisive Action
Responding, Rev. Dr. David Bakare, PFN National Secretary, commended President Tinubu for initiating dialogue with the church community.
“We thank Mr. President for reaching out. It’s commendable, even though we wish it had come earlier. You’ve presented government’s position clearly, and it’s encouraging that you affirm the right of Nigerians to express their opinions in a democracy,” he stated.
He expressed the PFN’s concern over persistent attacks in parts of the country, particularly Kwara South and Plateau, emphasizing that while violence against Christians is undeniable, it did not begin with the current administration.
“Government needs to do more. We don’t seek sympathy; we want solutions,” Rev. Bakare added, urging transparency and improved public trust in security operations.
Other PFN leaders also made critical observations.
Rev. Dr. Isaac Komolafe, a former FCT Chairman, called for urgent action:
“We’ve talked for too long without seeing enough action. The proliferation of arms in Nigeria is alarming. The government must show stronger resolve in using its powers efficiently.”
Rev. Steve Dangoma, narrating personal losses from attacks in Plateau State, said:
“We don’t hold this administration responsible for the current insecurity, but we believe it can solve it. The PFN stands ready to collaborate with the government in finding lasting solutions.”
The PFN leadership unanimously called for the recruitment of more security personnel, endorsed the creation of State Police, and stressed the need to tackle both insecurity and unemployment simultaneously.
The President’s spokesperson said : “The Government and PFN Share Common Ground”
In his closing remarks, Dr. Bwala clarified that the PFN’s concerns largely align with the government’s position.
“We accept that insecurity exists, but we strongly reject the notion that any faith is being targeted. The West has imposed restrictions on certain surveillance technologies that could aid our fight against terrorism. Yet, despite financial limitations, Nigeria’s crime rate remains far lower than in many Western nations,” he stated.
He added that recent arrests of key Boko Haram and bandit leaders demonstrate ongoing progress, while the SSS and local vigilante formations are partnering on community-based security solutions. “We are not seeking endorsement from any religious group. Our goal is to present facts and promote informed dialogue. The government welcomes collaboration and intelligence sharing from citizens in the fight against insecurity,” Dr. Bwala concluded, pledging to brief President Tinubu on the meeting outcomes.
