FG Dismisses Claims of Religious Targeted Killings in Nigeria

By Iyojo Ameh

The Federal Government has dismissed claims that Christians are being systematically targeted for killings in Nigeria, describing such reports as misleading and aimed at influencing foreign governments, particularly the United States, to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged religious-based violence.

In a statement issued on Friday, Mr. Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that while Nigeria faces security challenges, these incidents are not religiously motivated nor directed at any particular faith.

“The majority of security incidents related to insurgency and banditry in Nigeria, particularly in the predominantly Muslim northern region, are not specifically targeted at followers of any religion,” Ebienfa stated. “Any narrative suggesting a religious persecution agenda is erroneous and misleading.”

The statement reaffirmed Nigeria’s status as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation, with the government committed to protecting all citizens, regardless of their faith, ethnicity, or gender. It noted that the country’s security challenges stem from criminality, terrorism, and communal clashes, including farmer-herder conflicts, which are often misrepresented as religious violence.

Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, the government has intensified efforts to address security concerns through the deployment of security forces to combat insurgency and banditry, strengthened intelligence gathering to prevent attacks and community engagement initiatives to foster peace.

The military, according to the statement, has recorded substantial progress in containing the activities of insurgents and bandits. Additionally, federal and state authorities have adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, including the implementation of the National Livestock Plan, to address security challenges.

To resolve the ongoing farmer-herder conflicts, the government has established a Ministry of Livestock Development to develop sustainable solutions.

Appointed a Special Adviser and Coordinator of Livestock Reforms to tackle land disputes and promote peaceful coexistence.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on the international community, media, and civil society organizations to exercise caution and verify information before making public statements that could escalate tensions.

“We urge all stakeholders to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could undermine national unity and stability,” the statement read.

The government equally reiterated that Nigeria remains a model for religious tolerance in Africa, dedicated to peaceful coexistence among its diverse religious communities.

While welcoming constructive dialogue and international support in addressing security concerns, Nigeria strongly opposes any attempts to misrepresent the situation or create unnecessary divisions among its people.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to national security, stability, and religious harmony, urging international partners to collaborate in the fight against terrorism and insecurity.