The Christian Association of Nigeria in the 19 northern states and Abuja has urged Christians and Muslims to use President Donald Trump’s recent statement on alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria as a call for unity and collective action.

The chairman of the association, John Joseph Hayab, on Tuesday said that rather than viewing Mr Trump’s comments as divisive, Nigerians should see them as an opportunity to work together to end killings and religious intolerance across the country.

Mr Trump had threatened to invade Nigeria and kill off bandits and terrorists allegedly committing genocide against Christians in the country.

His remarks have since stirred public debate within and outside the country.

The CAN chairman, therefore, stated that the statement should serve as a wake-up call for both faith communities to demand concrete steps from the government to ensure the safety and freedom of all citizens, regardless of their religion or identity.

“Trump’s statement about Christian genocide in Nigeria should be an opportunity for peace-loving Christians and Muslims to unite and demand concrete action by our government to stop the killing of anybody because of religion or any form of identity,” Mr Hayab said.

According to him, a fair reading of Mr Trump’s words reveals concern rather than condemnation, and portrays the voice of an outsider urging Nigerians to uphold peace and unity.

“If you choose to read President Trump’s statement with an open mind, you will simply hear the voice of a visitor who cares about you and wants you to do something serious to enjoy peace and unity in your country,” he added.

Mr Hayab cautioned against individuals or groups who might twist the U.S. leader’s remarks to fuel division among Nigerians.

“We should disregard those who are manipulating and twisting what was said to instigate us against one another to divide us further. He said if nothing is done, his military will come after the terrorists, not after Nigerians — or are some of us admitting that they are part of the terrorists?” the religious leader stated.

The Christian cleric reiterated that what Nigerians desire is freedom for everyone to practise their faith without fear or discrimination.

“What we want is freedom for all to practice our faith, whether we are Christians, Muslims, or free thinkers,” he said.

Mr Hayab appealed to religious leaders, government authorities, and citizens to prioritise peacebuilding and genuine national reconciliation.

(NAN)