Bishop Matthew Kukah has rejected allegations of Christian genocide in Nigeria, saying that genocide is defined by intent, not body count. Speaking at the Knights of St. Mulumba convention in Kaduna, he insisted that claims of widespread persecution are misleading, citing his 1,270-page study presented at the Vatican and noting that Christians dominate Nigeria’s education and economy.
Kukah questioned figures claiming thousands of burnt churches, arguing that such data excludes the Catholic Church and lacks verification. He also challenged narratives promoted by President Trump, U.S. lawmakers, and CAN, saying “Genocide is not based on the number of people killed… The critical determinant is intent.” His comments come amid fresh U.S. political pressure following Nigeria’s redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern.