Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Some cranial nerves have ganglia that hold the cell bodies of their sensory fibres.
Step 2: Geniculate ganglion
It lies at the bend (genu) of the facial canal and belongs to the facial nerve, the seventh cranial nerve.
Step 3: Compare the options
The glossopharyngeal nerve has other ganglia, while the abducens and hypoglossal nerves are purely motor.
Final Answer:
The geniculate ganglion belongs to the facial nerve.
\[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{facial}} \]