By Erewunmi Peace

Former Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Professor Bolaji Akinyemi, has expressed deep concern over the recent allegations of genocide being linked to Nigeria, describing the claims as “distressing” and “unjustified.”

Speaking in an interview on Politics Today aired by Channels Television, Akinyemi said he felt both depressed and upset that such a serious accusation could be levelled against his country.

“I am depressed and upset that the charge of genocide will be levelled at my country,” he said.
“Whatever may be happening in some parts of Nigeria, such as the Middle Belt, cannot be described as genocide.”

The former minister, who once served as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said while it is true that violent conflicts have occurred across different regions, it is wrong to equate these incidents with genocide — a term defined under international law as the deliberate extermination of a particular group of people.

Akinyemi urged both the Nigerian government and international observers to handle such sensitive allegations with caution, warning that careless narratives could damage the country’s global image and diplomatic relations.

He also appealed to media houses and civil society groups to promote national unity and ensure that reports on internal conflicts are based on facts, not political or ethnic sentiments.

The genocide allegations have recently sparked debate among Nigerians at home and abroad, with some advocacy groups calling for independent investigations into violent clashes in several states. However, the Federal Government has consistently denied any policy or intent of genocide.

Akinyemi’s remarks reflect growing concern among political and diplomatic elites over how Nigeria is portrayed on the international stage amid ongoing security challenges.