The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has dismissed allegations of genocide in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa, calling instead for collective action against rising terrorist attacks in the region.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the regional bloc said recent acts of terrorism have indiscriminately targeted civilians of all faiths and backgrounds, rejecting narratives that frame the violence as a deliberate attack on any specific group.
ECOWAS stated that such claims distort reality and risk deepening divisions across communities. It urged the international community to rely on verified reports showing that terrorist activities in the region are not based on religion, ethnicity, or gender.
“ECOWAS strongly rejects false and dangerous claims that seek to weaken social cohesion and spread insecurity,” the statement read.
The organisation appealed to the United Nations and global partners to continue supporting member states through counterterrorism and peacebuilding efforts.
“ECOWAS calls on the world to stand by the countries in the region as they confront terrorism that targets all communities,” it added.
The statement followed recent remarks by former United States President Donald Trump, who described Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over alleged persecution of Christians.
Nigeria’s Federal Government refuted the claim, describing it as inconsistent with facts and reaffirming its commitment to religious freedom and national security.
ECOWAS reiterated that defeating terrorism in West Africa requires unity, not divisive rhetoric.
