The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has rejected claims of targeted killings of Christians, labeling them as misinformation aimed at influencing international perceptions. The government asserts that violence is predominantly due to criminality and insurgency, not religious persecution, and emphasizes efforts to ensure national security for all citizens. It urges the global community to verify reports related to Nigeria’s situation before making statements that could escalate tensions.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has dismissed allegations of targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria as misleading. In a statement from Acting Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, the government stated that these reports could influence foreign governments, particularly in their actions towards designating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to religious violence.
The Federal Government’s response follows the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa’s authorization for President Trump to impose sanctions against Nigeria, prompted by concerns over the safety of Christian communities amid ongoing violence. During a congressional hearing, data revealed that Nigeria accounts for 90 percent of global Christian fatalities, with over 55,000 deaths and 21,000 abductions attributed to terrorist activities from October 2019 to September 2023.
The Ministry acknowledged Nigeria’s security challenges but stated that most incidents are not rooted in religious hatred but rather in criminality and insurgency. They emphasized that these violent acts are not directed against any particular religious group and urged for a correct understanding of the nature of the violence.
The statement reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to being a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society where all citizens are protected irrespective of their faith. It detailed ongoing governmental efforts to combat security threats, such as deploying security forces, gathering intelligence, and engaging communities to resolve conflicts.
The Nigerian government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has taken decisive actions, including military operations against insurgents, to resolve security issues. It asserts that substantial progress has been made in diminishing bandit activities and affirms the implementation of a national livestock plan to tackle communal clashes.
The Ministry called upon the international community to verify information about Nigerian security before issuing reports that may escalate tensions. It emphasized the importance of accurate representation and seeks cooperation from media, civil organizations, and foreign allies to prevent the spread of unverified claims, which could threaten national unity and stability.
In conclusion, Nigeria remains committed to religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence, welcoming international support in tackling security challenges while rejecting any misrepresentation or narratives aimed at creating discord among its populace. The Ministry requests that stakeholders exercise caution in their statements and verify information before drawing conclusions that could undermine peace in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the Nigerian government adamantly refutes claims of targeting Christians in violence, asserting that the predominant issues are due to criminal activities and insurgency, not religious persecution. The Ministry reiterates Nigeria’s commitment to protecting all citizens and upholding its multi-religious and multi-ethnic identity. The government calls for careful verification of information by the international community to prevent further tensions and supports peaceful coexistence among its people.
Original Source: punchng.com
