FG Refutes US Claim Of Targeted Killings Of Christians

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, guided by Ambassador Yusuf M. Tuggar, has dismissed assertions of deliberate killings of Christians in Nigeria, labeling these accusations as deceptive and intended to sway foreign governments, especially the United States, into classifying Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).

In a press release distributed on Friday, March 14, and endorsed by acting spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the ministry declared, “While the Federal Government acknowledges the security challenges in the country, these incidents are not religiously motivated or targeted at any particular faith group.”

The ministry further underscored that insurgency and banditry, notably in the largely Muslim northern region of Nigeria, are not aimed at any distinct religious group.

This response follows persistent reports from the US Congress, which have raised worries about religious liberty in Nigeria, contributing to the nation’s earlier listing as a CPC. Nevertheless, the Nigerian government has repeatedly disputed these assertions, maintaining that the security issues are complex and not based on religious oppression.

“Nigeria is a multiethnic and multireligious nation with a long history of peaceful coexistence between people of different faiths,” the ministry restated, reaffirming the government’s dedication to protecting all citizens, irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or gender.

The statement explained that the current security difficulties in the nation arise from criminal activities, terrorism, and communal conflicts—especially those involving farmers and herders. These problems have been aggravated by factors like climate change, population increases, and struggles over land resources, but do not constitute systematic religious persecution.

The ministry detailed the measures implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to tackle the nation’s security concerns, which involve stationing security personnel in conflict-heavy zones, improving intelligence collection, and promoting collaboration among various security entities.

Moreover, the government pointed out community engagement programs intended to encourage peace and reconciliation throughout Nigeria.

“While noting the progress made in curbing banditry and insurgency, recent military operations have significantly weakened criminal groups,” the statement noted. It also emphasized the government’s strategy of integrating kinetic and non-kinetic approaches—military efforts combined with dialogue and economic reforms—to tackle the underlying causes of insecurity.

The Nigerian government is also concentrating on long-term initiatives to settle disputes tied to land usage. In this context, it has created a Ministry of Livestock Development and designated a Special Adviser and Coordinator on Livestock Reforms to manage sustainable solutions for pastoral farming, a step designed to lessen land disagreements between farmers and herders.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs encouraged the global community to authenticate information prior to issuing statements that might heighten tensions within Nigeria. It also urged the media, civil society organizations, and international allies to avoid circulating unconfirmed claims that could jeopardize the country’s unity and stability.

“Nigeria remains a beacon of religious tolerance and coexistence in Africa and is committed to preserving this heritage,” the statement concluded.

The ministry reasserted Nigeria’s dedication to freedom of religion and interfaith harmony, emphasizing that while the government appreciates constructive dialogue and international assistance in addressing security challenges, it opposes any efforts to mischaracterize the situation, twist narratives, or foster division among Nigerians.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli