In recent months, a dangerous and coordinated campaign of misinformation has been unleashed against Nigeria, one that falsely accuses the country of religious persecution and genocide against Christians.
What started as covert whispers has now grown into an open and malicious movement, finding its way to the highest levels of the United States government. Shockingly, the President of the United States is reportedly considering designating Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), even threatening unilateral military action based on these unfounded allegations.
This dangerous escalation, according to Mr. Jaye Gaskia, Chair of the PAVE Network Steering Committee, is nothing short of a weaponized disinformation campaign aimed at weakening Nigeria and derailing Africa’s growing influence on the global stage.
Before this campaign of deceit gains further ground, it is crucial to establish the truth. Are there long-standing grievances and conflicts across different regions? Yes. Have there been incidents of mass violence resulting in tragic loss of lives? Sadly, yes. But is there an ongoing genocide in Nigeria particularly one targeting Christians? Absolutely not.
Nigeria’s insecurity stems not from religious or ethnic extermination, but from decades of poor governance, corruption, underdevelopment, and weak institutions. The violence we face is systemic, not sectarian. Nigeria is not a country where Christians and Muslims are locked in a deliberate war of faith.
According to Mr. Gaskia, this false genocide narrative is part of a wider global campaign aimed at destabilizing Africa’s most influential nations, Nigeria and South Africa.
“In Nigeria, the propaganda claims Christians are being systematically exterminated,” Gaskia notes. “In South Africa, the same forces allege a so-called genocide of white farmers. Both narratives are lies designed to sow division, weaken internal cohesion, and prevent Africa from achieving genuine independence and leadership.”
Why these two nations? Because both possess the capacity to lead Africa out of its historic underdevelopment and dependency. Their destabilization would serve the interests of those who fear a politically and economically empowered Africa.
This, Gaskia stresses, is a wake-up call not only for Nigeria’s leaders but for every citizen. He calls on the Nigerian government and political class to rise above selfish interests, close ranks, and prioritize the welfare and security of the people. Governance must begin to work for Nigerians delivering safety, justice, and prosperity.
At the same time, Nigerians must guard against becoming tools in the hands of foreign powers or divisive local actors.
“Let us not be manipulated into turning our legitimate frustrations into weapons against one another,” he warns. “This is not a Christian or Muslim problem, nor a Northern or Southern crisis. This is about Nigeria’s survival and sovereignty.”
Gaskia also points out the irony of Western nations, some of which were built on genocide and slavery now attempting to lecture Africa on morality and human rights.
“We must not allow countries founded on the genocide of Native Americans and the enslavement of Africans to orchestrate new forms of destruction on African soil,” he said.
He cautions Nigerians to remain critical of foreign rhetoric that uses terms like “Disgraced Nigeria” a subtle but dangerous attempt to delegitimize the country and justify external intervention.
Gaskia describes the growing “War on Nigeria, War on Africa, and War on Black People” as a psychological and political operation one designed to incite hatred, deepen division, and erode sovereignty.
He urges Nigerians to think critically, engage responsibly, and resist divisive propaganda.
“We have a duty to reject this culture of hate and reaffirm our commitment to unity, peace, and justice,” he said. “Only by standing together as Nigerians can we protect our democracy, defend our dignity, and secure a future for generations to come.”
The PAVE Network Chair’s message is clear: Nigeria is under attack, not by bombs or bullets, but by lies and manipulation. The antidote is unity, truth, and accountable governance.
“This is the time for all of us to rise, not as divided people, but as one nation,” Gaskia concluded. “Let us reject falsehoods, resist external interference, and demand responsible leadership from within.”