The Nigerian presidency has dismissed U.S. claims of Christian persecution, stating minimal incidents since President Tinubu’s administration began on May 29, 2023. The government emphasizes commitment to religious tolerance while critiquing the accuracy of the U.S. report, which calls for sanctions against Nigeria due to violence against Christians. The Tinubu administration recognizes terrorism as the primary cause of violence, not religious targeting.
The Nigerian presidency, represented by Special Adviser on Policy Communication Daniel Bwala, refuted allegations made by the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa regarding the persecution of Christians in Nigeria. Bwala asserted that since President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2023, incidents of Christian persecution have been minimal or nonexistent, emphasizing the administration’s dedication to promoting religious tolerance.
Bwala further critiqued the context and accuracy of the U.S. congressional report, stating, “While we are in no way admitting or authenticating the report of the U.S. Foreign Relations Committee, it is noteworthy to state that the committee’s report falls short of context and timelines.” He affirmed the commitment of President Tinubu to fostering peace within Nigeria.
Recently, the U.S. congressional committee recommended sanctions against Nigeria, citing a failure to protect Christians amidst growing violence. Committee Chairman Chris Smith referenced a 2024 report indicating that Nigeria is responsible for 90% of global Christian fatalities, with 55,910 deaths and 21,000 abductions linked to terrorist activities in the country.
The report incorporated testimonies from individuals such as Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, who detailed assaults on Christian communities. Bwala’s remarks highlight the Nigerian government’s disapproval of these claims, asserting that violence is primarily due to terrorism and not religious motives. The Tinubu administration is focused on improving national security for all religious groups, underlining a commitment to coexistence and safety in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the Nigerian presidency has firmly rejected claims of Christian persecution as stated by a U.S. congressional committee. The administration, under President Bola Tinubu, asserts that incidents of such persecution are negligible and emphasizes a commitment to religious tolerance and national security. The context and accuracy of external reports are viewed critically by the government, which attributes violence to terrorism rather than targeted religious conflict.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
