The Take Is there a ‘Christian genocide’ in Nigeria?
Nov 27, 2025
In this thought-provoking discussion, Yinka Adegoke, Africa editor at Semafor, delves into the alarming resurgence of mass school kidnappings in northern Nigeria. He explores the paradox of rising insecurity and President Trump’s explosive claims of a ‘Christian genocide.’ While Adegoke acknowledges the targeting of Christians, he emphasizes that the violence stems from deeper socioeconomic issues rather than pure religious persecution. The conversation also critiques the Nigerian government’s slow and opaque response, raising questions about accountability and international narratives.
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Violence Has Evolved Into General Insecurity
- Violence in Nigeria has shifted from primarily religious motives to a broader insecurity problem.
- Yinka Adegoke says this evolution makes attacks more about criminality than targeted religious persecution.
Parents Plead For Government Rescue
- Families begged the government for help after mass school kidnappings and called it their only hope.
- Michael Ibrahim said, “There is no one we can trust other than the government.”
Opaque Releases Fuel Fear And Conspiracy
- Kidnappers releasing children without clear ransom or claims raises alarming questions.
- Yinka notes lack of transparency fuels conspiracy and suggests kidnappers can strike again at will.