Allegations of religious bias in Nigeria are baseless – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has dismissed suggestions that religious persecution is taking place in Nigeria, insisting that such claims are baseless.

Speaking in Owerri, Imo State, on Tuesday during the public presentation of Governor Hope Uzodimma’s book, A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria, Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria remains a nation where religious tolerance thrives.

According to him, Christians and Muslims across the country have continued to live and work together peacefully, a reality that undermines narratives of deliberate persecution. He described such claims as “false and unfounded,” urging Nigerians to resist divisive rhetoric that could threaten national unity.

He said, “There’s no religious persecution in Nigeria. It’s a lie from the pit of hell. I have always believed in good governance, and since I assumed office, I have focused on your welfare. Today, Nigerians can confidently say we have well-equipped hospitals, and we can treat critical illnesses such as cancer.”

PUNCH Online earlier reported that American talk show host Bill Maher had claimed that Christians are being systematically killed in Nigeria.

Maher, in a viral clip from his show Real Time with Bill Maher, alleged that up to 500,000 Christians had been killed in the country, describing the situation as genocide.

The video was circulated by international influencers, including Radio Genoa, an anti-Islamic personality on X.

Speaking further, the President assured Nigerians that they will soon start experiencing prosperity under his administration.

Tinubu said, “Nigeria’s economy just turned a corner, and you will receive prosperity; those talking negatively about this country should stop saying so.

“Just be patient, as all Nigerians will feel the prosperity in due time; don’t be corrupt.”