The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has dismissed allegations of a Christian genocide in Nigeria, describing them as false narratives intended to incite insecurity and weaken regional unity.

In a communiqué issued on Tuesday, the regional bloc warned that such claims were dangerous and could undermine peace efforts across West Africa.

“Terrorist groups of different colourations have penetrated some countries in West Africa, including Nigeria, and targeted civilians of all religious denominations—Muslims, Christians, and adherents to other religions,” ECOWAS stated.

The commission explained that independent reports over the years have consistently shown that terrorist violence in the region does not discriminate by religion, gender, ethnicity, or age.

“ECOWAS calls on the United Nations and all partners to support Member States in their fight against these groups and to treat as false any claims that these terrorists target one group or that there is a genocide of one religious group in the region,” the communiqué added.

The organisation condemned what it termed “false and dangerous claims” meant to destabilize communities and derail regional stability. It also urged the international community to continue supporting member states in their collective efforts to combat terrorism and foster peace.

The ECOWAS statement comes amid growing global reactions to comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently threatened possible military action and aid withdrawal if the Nigerian government failed to end what he called “the killing of Christians.”