Terrorists Don’t Represent Any Religion,” Says Tambuwal — A Call for Unity Amid Violence

In a powerful and unifying message, Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has strongly asserted that terrorists do not represent any religion, urging Nigerians across all faiths to reject divisive narratives that link violent extremism with religious identity. The statement was made during a public address amid ongoing concerns over insecurity in various parts of the country. 

Tambuwal’s remarks come at a critical moment as Nigerians grapple with repeated attacks by terrorist, bandit, and insurgent groups — violence that has fanned fears, sparked communal tensions, and occasionally been framed along religious fault lines.

A Message of Unity in Turbulent Times

Governor Tambuwal emphasised that terrorism is a criminal act driven by political motives, social disruption, and extremist ideology — not by religious doctrine or legitimate spiritual belief. In his address, he highlighted the danger of misattributing terrorism to any faith group, warning that such narratives deepen division and distract from the real work of preserving peace and protecting citizens.

“Terrorists don’t represent any religion,” Tambuwal stated. “Their actions are criminal, their goals are destructive, and they thrive on fear, not faith.” His remarks resonated strongly with communities tired of violence and weary of misinformation that can fuel suspicion between neighbours.

Why This Matters

Nigeria is a religiously diverse country — home to millions of Christians, Muslims, and adherents of traditional beliefs. In such a context, leaders’ words carry significant social weight. Tambuwal’s message speaks directly to the nation’s need for unity in confronting insecurity without scapegoating entire communities.

Experts say that when terrorism is incorrectly framed as a religious conflict, it can:

Derail peace initiatives

Undermine cooperation between communities

Fuel cycles of retaliation

Distract security agencies from focusing on root causes of violence

By articulating a clear separation between terrorism and religion, Tambuwal reinforces a narrative of shared national identity and collective responsibility.

Policy Implications and Public Reaction

Tambuwal’s statement aligns with broad national security messaging from the Federal Government and civil society groups, who have repeatedly called for a united front against criminal networks.

Security analysts note that effective counter-terrorism requires:

Cooperation between faith leaders

Community engagement

Intelligence-driven operations

Clear public messaging that avoids stigmatizing entire communities

Reports of interfaith coalitions holding joint peace rallies have emerged in parts of the North, where Ogunyan-style collaboration between communities is helping to build trust and foster resilience.

Meanwhile, many Nigerians have taken to social media to applaud Tambuwal’s statement, saying it reflects a much-needed reminder that extremists are criminals first — not spokespeople for any religion.

Conclusion

As Nigeria continues to pursue peace and security, leadership voices that cut through fear and misinformation are indispensable. Governor Tambuwal’s declaration that “terrorists don’t represent any religion” offers a clarion call for unity, empathy, and shared resolve.

In a nation often challenged by division, such leadership can help reinforce the simple truth that violence has no religion — but peace demands cooperation from all.

Source: Punch Nigeria — “Terrorists don’t represent any religion,” says Tambuwal.