Nigerian Government Denies Allegations of Targeted Violence Against Christians
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected allegations that Christians are specifically targeted in insurgencies, asserting that violence is primarily due to criminal activity. It emphasized the importance of accurate information from the international community and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to religious tolerance and unity while addressing security concerns.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria has officially responded to reports alleging that Christians in Nigeria are being targeted in an insurgency. The Federal Government characterized these allegations as misleading, asserting that they are part of a strategic campaign to influence foreign governments, particularly the United States, to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to perceived violence against Christians.
In a statement from Acting Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Ministry expressed concern over the United States House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee’s authorization of sanctions against Nigeria. This decision followed a congressional hearing where lawmakers voiced dissatisfaction regarding the Nigerian government’s response to violence against Christian communities.
Evidence presented during the hearing suggested that Nigeria was responsible for 90 percent of global Christian fatalities annually, with over 55,000 individuals reported killed and an additional 21,000 abducted by terrorist groups between 2019 and 2023. However, the Ministry contended that these violent incidents are not rooted in religious animus, but rather in criminal activity and insecurity prevalent in the northern region of Nigeria.
The Ministry reiterated that the violence in the region is not aimed at any specific religious group, emphasizing that the country’s challenges stem from criminal insurgency and banditry. It declared, “The majority of incidents relating to insurgency and banditry that occur in the predominantly Muslim northern part of Nigeria are not targeted at followers of a particular faith or religion.
Nigeria boasts a diverse ethnic and religious makeup, and the government remains committed to safeguarding the rights of all citizens, irrespective of their faith. The Ministry highlighted ongoing governmental efforts to tackle these security threats, including military actions against insurgents and initiatives to mediate communal conflicts.
Notably, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, significant measures have been undertaken to alleviate security concerns, including intelligence operations and community engagement. The Ministry reported advancements in mitigating the activities of bandits and insurgents through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches, as well as the implementation of a national livestock plan.
Additionally, the Ministry called upon the international community to verify information prior to disseminating it, warning that unverified claims could further aggravate tensions within Nigeria. It urged all media entities, civil society organizations, and foreign partners to contribute positively to national unity, rather than perpetuating conflict.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, expressing a willingness to engage constructively with the international community concerning security matters. It firmly rejected any misrepresentation of the country and stressed the importance of national unity and stability, advocating for cautious communication from global stakeholders regarding the nation’s challenges.
In summary, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has categorically denied claims that Christians are specifically targeted in an insurgency, attributing violence to broader criminal issues. The Ministry has urged the international community to verify information accurately to maintain stability and uphold Nigeria’s reputation for religious tolerance. The government is committed to addressing security challenges while fostering peace and unity among its diverse populace.
Original Source: punchng.com
