The Federal Government of Nigeria has denied allegations raised by the United States Congress regarding the targeted killing of Christians in the country. The government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, described the claims as misleading and the work of individuals seeking to tarnish Nigeria’s international reputation. The Ministry further emphasised that the narrative is being pushed by fifth columnists aiming to have Nigeria labeled a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) by the global community. In a statement released on Friday, the ministry spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, asserted that the ongoing Security crisis in Nigeria is not fueled by religious bias but is instead a manifestation of security challenges affecting citizens of all faiths.
Also, the government raised concerns about Misinformation surrounding religious violence, stressing that such narratives are harmful and could potentially incite unnecessary tensions within Nigeria. It maintained that the government remains committed to safeguarding all citizens, irrespective of religious background, and urged the international community to rely on verified information rather than distorted reports. Former Interior Minister and retired military general Abdulrahman Dambazau also weighed in, arguing that the security crisis most affects Muslims in the northern part of the country. He countered the US Congress’ stance, stating that the ongoing violence marked by insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes impacts Nigerians regardless of religious affiliation.
Government insists on security challenges rather than religious battles.
Addressing concerns about violence in the country, the federal government reiterated that security issues are complex and should not be attributed to religious persecution. The Ministry pointed out that acts of banditry, terrorism, and communal clashes, including farmer- herder conflicts, have no religious undertones but are instead driven by economic, social, and historical factors. According to the government, Nigeria’s multiethnic and multi-religious composition necessitates a nuanced approach to security management. It assured that efforts to tackle Insecurity are comprehensive, focusing on military intervention and non-military strategies such as intelligence gathering and community engagement.
Highlighting recent measures to address security challenges, the government established a Ministry of Livestock Development and appointed a Special Adviser on Livestock Reforms to implement sustainable pastoral farming solutions to resolve land disputes between farmers and herders. The government further noted that substantial progress has been made in countering Banditry and insurgency, with security forces achieving notable successes in recent months. It stressed that these efforts demonstrate the nation’s commitment to ending insecurity and maintaining national stability.
Global community is urged to verify claims before making policy decisions.
In response to calls for sanctions on Nigeria following reports presented at the US Congressional hearing, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs cautioned against hasty conclusions based on unverified claims. It emphasised the importance of accurate reporting and warned that misleading narratives could undermine the region’s unity and social cohesion. The government reaffirmed its position that Nigeria remains a model for religious tolerance and coexistence in Africa. It urged international partners, Civil Society organisations, and the media to support efforts in addressing security challenges without resorting to narratives that could escalate tensions.
Meanwhile, the controversy stems from a recent US Congressional hearing that examined the persecution of Christian communities and other minorities in the country. Reports presented during the hearing suggested an alarming trend of attacks against Christians, with data from the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa stating that the region accounts for 90 percent of all Christians killed worldwide annually. The findings led to renewed calls from lawmakers urging US President Donald Trump to impose sanctions on Nigeria, which has raised widespread debate both within and outside the country.
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However, Nigerian authorities maintain that such claims are exaggerated and fail to reflect the broader security challenges affecting people of all religious backgrounds. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs concluded its statement by calling for constructive dialogue and collaboration between Nigeria and its international partners to tackle security issues effectively. It stressed that the government remains dedicated to protecting all citizens and is open to genuine support that aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to Peace and stability.