Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rebuts claims of targeted killings of Christians, suggesting these allegations aim to influence the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. The government stresses that violence in the north is not religiously motivated and reaffirms its commitment to protecting all citizens. Enhanced security measures are being implemented to address underlying issues, while urging the international community to verify claims to avoid exacerbating tensions.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria has addressed recent misinformation regarding targeted killings of Christians in the country. These claims are viewed as an attempt to influence foreign governments, particularly the United States, to classify Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) based on alleged violence against Christians.
While acknowledging the nation’s security challenges, the Federal Government emphasizes that these incidents are not rooted in religious bias or aimed at any particular faith. The majority of violence in the predominantly Muslim northern region involves crime and banditry, rather than targeted persecution of religious groups.
Recognizing Nigeria’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious composition, the government asserts its commitment to protecting all citizens’ lives and properties. Security issues arise from various factors, including terrorism, criminality, and communal conflicts, which are not primarily driven by religious motivations.
Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, measures have been implemented to strengthen security, including the deployment of forces, improved intelligence operations, and community initiatives. The military has achieved notable success in combating banditry and insurgency, employing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, alongside the National Livestock Plan implementation for resolving conflicts.
To further these efforts, a Ministry of Livestock Development has been established, along with a Special Adviser to facilitate sustainable pastoral solutions. This initiative is aimed at addressing the core issues causing tensions between farmers and pastoral herders.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs calls on the international community to verify information before making potentially inflammatory statements. It emphasizes the importance of careful reporting by media, civil society, and foreign entities to uphold national unity and stability.
Nigeria prides itself on being a model of religious tolerance and coexistence in Africa and seeks constructive international partnership to tackle security hurdles, vehemently opposing any manipulation of its narrative that could incite division among its populace.
In summary, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs refutes allegations of targeted killings against Christians, asserting that the violence faced is not driven by religious biases. Acknowledging the complex security situation, the government emphasizes its commitment to the safety of all citizens and actively works on resolutions, particularly through the establishment of a Ministry of Livestock Development. It calls for responsible reporting from the international community to maintain national stability and coherence, underlining Nigeria’s legacy of religious tolerance.
Original Source: nta.ng
