The Nigerian government has denied U.S. allegations of targeted killings of Christians, stating that violence is driven by criminality and banditry, not religion. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concerns over misinformation following congressional hearings focused on sanction discussions. The government insists on its commitment to protect all citizens amidst broader security challenges.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, represented by acting spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, has refuted allegations made by the United States concerning targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria. The government emphasized that the violence prevalent in the nation is rooted in criminality, insurgency, and banditry endemic to the region, not religious persecution.
In its statement, the Ministry expressed concern over misinformation regarding violence against Christians, labeling these narratives as misleading attempts aimed at pressuring the international community into designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) due to claimed violence against Christians. The ministry noted the international implications of such designations, particularly in relation to foreign governmental actions.
This denial follows a congressional hearing led by the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, where there were discussions about the potential imposition of sanctions on Nigeria after reports highlighted severe violence against Christian populations. Lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with the Nigerian government’s efforts to safeguard Christian communities from targeted attacks.
The scrutiny intensified amid a report from the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa, which indicated that Nigeria represented 90 percent of the global killings of Christians annually. Data shared during the hearing detailed over 55,000 fatalities and 21,000 kidnappings linked to terrorist activity between October 2019 and September 2023, with Genocide Watch characterizing the situation as a “killing field of defenseless Christians.”
The Nigerian government firmly rejected these claims, asserting that security issues confront all citizens regardless of their religious beliefs. It emphasized that violence occurring in the Muslim-majority northern areas is not directed at specific faith followers and warned against narratives that misrepresent the reality of the conflict.
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to citizen protection and highlighted ongoing military initiatives aimed at combating insurgents. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is actively engaging in community interactions and intelligence operations to address underlying security issues.
In closing, the ministry called on the international community to verify information before making assertions that could heighten tensions within Nigeria. The Nigerian government is committed to maintaining its image as a land of religious tolerance and coexistence, and seeks support in addressing national security challenges while rejecting any mischaracterization of its efforts.
In summary, the Nigerian government’s response to U.S. allegations asserts that the violence within the country is not rooted in religious persecution but rather stems from broader security concerns affecting all citizens. The Nigerian authorities emphasize their commitment to protecting all faith groups and argue against narratives portraying the conflict as faith-based. They urge the international community for accuracy in reporting to foster better understanding of Nigeria’s challenges.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
