The Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria (SCSN) has faulted the United States government for placing Nigeria on its “Country of Particular Concern” list over alleged religious intolerance and violations of religious freedom.

The council, in a statement signed by its President, Sheikh AbdurRasheed Hadiyyatullah, described the U.S. decision as misleading, baseless, and an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.

Sheikh Hadiyyatullah said the move was part of a broader Western agenda to sow religious tension in the country, insisting that Nigeria remains a multi-religious nation where both Muslims and Christians practice their faiths freely.

 “There is no persecution of Christians in Nigeria as alleged. Terrorism and banditry affect all Nigerians, regardless of faith. Many victims of insurgency are Muslims,” the council stated.

The council expressed concern that the U.S. had failed to rely on credible local intelligence sources before reaching its conclusion, adding that such a designation could strain diplomatic relations between both nations.

“The United States should stop interfering in Nigeria’s internal affairs under the guise of promoting religious freedom,” the statement added.

SCSN further called on the Nigerian government to reject and condemn the designation, describing it as an attempt to destabilize the country. It also urged the U.S. to focus on its own internal challenges, including gun violence and racial discrimination, rather than “lecturing other nations on human rights.”

The council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, unity, and mutual understanding among adherents of different faiths in Nigeria.

Sharia council faults U.S over Nigeria’s inclusion on religious freedom watchlist