Nigerian Government Rejects U.S. Claims of Christian Persecution

The Nigerian Presidency, through Daniel Bwala, has dismissed U.S. claims of Christian persecution, asserting that the Tinubu administration promotes religious tolerance. Bwala highlighted the lack of evidence supporting the report and emphasized ongoing government efforts to ensure security and harmony among all religious groups in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Presidency, represented by Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has refuted allegations made by the United States House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa regarding Christian persecution in Nigeria. Bwala emphasized that since President Bola Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, the government has prioritized religious tolerance and reported minimal incidents of Christian persecution.

Bwala expressed skepticism towards the accuracy and context of the congressional report, stating, “While we are in no way admitting or authenticating the report, it is noteworthy to state that the committee’s report falls short of context and timelines.” He reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to fostering peace and religious tolerance across Nigeria.

This response came after the subcommittee’s recommendation for sanctions against Nigeria due to escalating violence against Christians. During a congressional hearing, lawmakers criticized the Nigerian government for its inadequate protection of Christian communities, citing a report indicating Nigeria accounts for a substantial percentage of Christians killed globally.

The report in question, covering the period from October 2019 to September 2023, claims that approximately 55,910 individuals were killed, with 21,000 abducted by terrorist organizations in Nigeria. Testimonies from local leaders, such as Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, indicated serious concerns regarding the safety of Christian communities.

The Nigerian government continues to reject these claims, asserting that violence nationwide primarily stems from terrorism, banditry, or inter-communal clashes rather than persecution based on religion. The Tinubu administration maintains its dedication to enhancing national security and religious harmony for all citizens in Nigeria.

In conclusion, the Nigerian government, through spokesperson Daniel Bwala, has firmly rejected claims of Christian persecution made by a U.S. congressional committee, asserting that the current administration promotes religious tolerance with few reported incidents of persecution. Although the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee expressed serious concerns regarding violence against Christians, Nigerian authorities attribute such violence to various conflicts and are committed to addressing security challenges for all faiths.

Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com