Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, has rejected claims linking Nigeria’s banditry crisis to religion, arguing that violent groups operating across the country do not represent any faith or belief system.
Speaking to journalists in Sokoto on Saturday, Tambuwal said armed groups terrorising communities are driven by criminal intent rather than ideology.
According to him, their actions show a clear pattern of opportunistic violence against civilians, regardless of religious or ethnic identity.
Moreover, the former Sokoto State governor warned political actors and international observers against framing Nigeria’s worsening insecurity through a religious lens.
He emphasised that such narratives distort reality and risk deepening divisions at a time when unity is crucial.
Tambuwal also faulted the recent decision by United States President Donald Trump to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, describing the move as misplaced.
He said the label fails to capture the complexity of Nigeria’s security challenges and could undermine genuine efforts to stabilise affected regions.
“What Nigeria is facing is a broad security breakdown, not a religious conflict,” Tambuwal said.
“These attackers strike villages, highways, churches, mosques and markets alike. Their victims cut across all faiths, which shows clearly that religion is not the issue.”
He further pointed to repeated attacks in states such as Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and Kebbi as evidence that bandits operate without discrimination.
Hence, he argued that portraying the violence as targeted persecution misrepresents the lived experiences of communities in the North and beyond.
Aligning with the Vatican’s position, Tambuwal noted that the Pope has acknowledged that both Christians and Muslims in Nigeria are victims of widespread insecurity.
He said this assessment better reflects realities on the ground than external political classifications.
“Insecurity has become a national emergency,” he said.
“It cuts across politics, ethnicity and religion, and it requires a united response from Nigerians and sincere support from global partners.”
Tambuwal urged the United States, Europe and other allies to reconsider their approach and focus on practical assistance rather than political judgments.
Furthermore, he called for stronger international backing for the administration of President Bola Tinubu in tackling armed violence.
“This is not about President Tinubu, party politics or personal interests,” he added. “It is about Nigeria’s survival. Any country willing to support Nigeria in overcoming insecurity should step forward and help.”