Leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, has warned that both Christians and Muslims are being “slaughtered” in Nigeria, linking the widespread killings to terrorism, economic tensions, and violent struggles over land.
His remarks come just weeks after the U.S. President alleged that a “Christian genocide” is occurring in Nigeria, sparking international debate and renewed scrutiny of the country’s security challenges.
Pope Leo XIV: Violence Affects All Nigerians
The Pope made the comments during an interview recorded Tuesday in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and circulated widely on Friday, according to the Catholic News Agency.
When asked whether Christians are safe in Nigeria amid claims of targeted persecution, he stressed that the danger extends beyond religious lines:
“I think in Nigeria, in certain areas, there is certainly a danger for Christians, but for all people. Christians and Muslims have been slaughtered.”
Extremism, Economics and Land Conflicts Drive Killings
Pope Leo XIV said the crisis cannot be explained by religion alone.
He highlighted terrorism, economic factors, and land-control disputes as key contributors to the persistent violence across parts of the country.
“There’s a question of terrorism. There’s a question that has to do a lot with economics… and control of the lands that they have,” he noted.
Nigeria has in recent years faced rising insecurity driven by extremist groups, armed bandits, farmer-herder clashes, and criminal gangs targeting rural communities.
Calls for Stronger Government Action
The Pope urged the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to safeguard lives and protect fundamental freedoms.
“Unfortunately, many Christians have died, and I think it’s important to seek a way for the government, with all peoples, to promote authentic religious freedom,” he said.
His comments add to growing international pressure on Nigerian authorities to tackle insecurity and uphold the rights of all religious and ethnic groups.