The Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Christians are being targeted and killed in Nigeria, calling the assertion misleading and harmful to Nigeria’s unity and global image. Speaking on Sunday in his palace during his 82nd birthday celebrations, the traditional ruler emphasized Nigeria’s long history of peaceful coexistence among Christians and Muslims who share communities, celebrations, and challenges.
Akiolu insisted the violence in Nigeria is not religion-based but perpetrated by misguided individuals and groups, urging international leaders to verify facts before making statements that can generate unnecessary tension. He stressed the importance of national unity, especially during critical times of economic and security reforms, warning against divisions fueled by religion, ethnicity, or politics.
The Oba also renewed his call for Lagos State to receive special recognition for its pivotal role in Nigeria’s economy and urged careful government-led urban renewal to avoid displacing indigenous residents. Expressing concern over declining sanitation, he advocated for a return to regular house-to-house environmental inspections to promote hygiene and civic responsibility.
Political leaders were also warned against greed and mismanagement of public funds, with Akiolu urging Nigerians to uphold values like honesty, discipline, transparency, and accountability for the country’s progress. He voiced support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and expressed hope for future generations to embrace integrity and fairness as core leadership virtues.
Leave a comment