The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has firmly rejected allegations of genocide in Nigeria and other parts of the region, calling instead for collective global action to combat terrorism and violent extremism.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the regional bloc expressed deep concern over the recent surge in terrorist attacks across West Africa, emphasizing that such violence targets civilians indiscriminately, irrespective of faith, gender, or ethnicity.

“ECOWAS wishes to draw the attention of partners and the international community to the growing level of violence that terrorist groups of different colouration have perpetrated in some countries of the West African region, including Nigeria,” the statement read.

Addressing what it described as misinformation in public discourse, ECOWAS categorically dismissed claims that the attacks amount to genocide against any particular religious group.

“As independent reports have confirmed over the years, terrorist-related violence does not discriminate on the basis of gender, religion, ethnicity or age. ECOWAS strongly rejects these false and dangerous claims that seek to deepen insecurity in communities and weaken social cohesion in the region,” the organization stated.

The bloc urged the United Nations and other international partners to stand with member states in their efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism, stressing that misinformation and divisive narratives only strengthen the hands of extremist groups.

Reaffirming its commitment to regional peace, unity, and stability, ECOWAS said that fighting terrorism requires collective effort based on facts, solidarity, and shared values.

“ECOWAS calls on the whole world to stand by the countries in the region in their fight against terrorism that targets all communities,” it added.

The ECOWAS statement comes in the wake of remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who on October 31 described Nigeria as a “country of particular concern,” alleging that Christians in the country were being targeted.

Nigeria’s Federal Government swiftly rejected the claims, insisting they were inconsistent with facts and reaffirming its commitment to protecting all citizens, upholding religious freedom, and sustaining the fight against violent extremism.

Trump had also reportedly warned on November 1 that the U.S. could suspend assistance to Nigeria or consider military action if the alleged killings of Christians continued.