Nigeria’s Presidency has pushed back against a security warning issued by a United States–based humanitarian group, insisting that claims of planned mass killings in parts of northern Nigeria during Christmas are unsubstantiated and risk spreading unnecessary fear.
Earlier reports by the organisation, Equipping The Persecuted, alleged that terror groups were regrouping to strike communities across several northern and North Central states on December 25.
The alert quickly gained attention online, raising concerns among residents ahead of the festive period.
However, reacting on behalf of the Federal Government, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, cast doubt on the credibility and intent of the warning.
He argued that such reports, when not properly verified, could worsen public anxiety and indirectly fuel insecurity.
“We must be cautious about amplifying claims from external bodies that may not fully understand the local security context,” Ajayi said.
“Some of these narratives end up creating the very panic they claim to prevent.”
According to him, the timing of the alert, particularly its focus on Christmas Day, raises serious questions about the motive behind it.
He warned that sensational security claims tied to sensitive periods could deepen social tension if left unchecked.
“The emphasis on a major religious celebration makes the report even more troubling,” Ajayi noted.
“Security issues should be handled responsibly, not framed in a way that heightens fear among citizens.”
Despite dismissing the alarm, the Presidency maintained that Nigeria’s security agencies remain on high alert.
Ajayi stressed that law enforcement and the military are already deployed across flashpoints and are capable of disrupting any genuine threat.
“Our security architecture is active and responsive,” he said.
“There is no cause for panic. Nigerians should trust that the state is prepared to protect lives and property.”
He further urged citizens to go about their holiday activities peacefully, assuring them that measures are in place to ensure a calm Christmas and Yuletide season nationwide.
“People should celebrate without fear,” Ajayi added.
“The police, the military, and other security agencies are fully engaged to guarantee a safe and peaceful festive period.”