Calls for US action amid growing violence against Christians in Nigeria
Nigeria continues to be a dangerous place for Christians as they face relentless persecution and violence at the hands of Islamist militants. The recent attacks in Plateau State have left over 60 Christians dead and hundreds of homes destroyed. This is just one in a long line of attacks that have been happening for the past 20 years, with no end in sight.
The president of the International Christian Concern (ICC) has labeled the situation in Nigeria as genocide, with up to 100,000 Christians killed and 3.5 million farmers displaced by Fulani Islamist terrorists. This is not random violence, but a calculated effort to erase Christians from their homeland and establish a Muslim caliphate in the Middle Belt of Nigeria.
The attacks have devastated communities, with families losing their male breadwinners and women and children facing sexual assault. Survivors are now living in displacement camps, facing food insecurity and unable to access education or worship safely. The recent attacks in Plateau State have only added to this ongoing crisis of religious persecution.
The United States government has been called upon to list Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) and to cut off all financial and military aid until meaningful action is taken to reduce attacks, arrest perpetrators, and restore lands to their rightful owners. The State Department has expressed deep concern over the violence in West Africa, including in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, and has urged the government of Nigeria to take decisive steps to prevent further attacks and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
As Easter approaches, Nigerian Christians are on high alert, knowing that they are at risk even during church services and religious gatherings. Despite the constant threat they face, their hope remains strong, reflecting the message of Easter – that life will always triumph over death. It is important for the international community to stand in solidarity with Nigerian Christians and offer support during this difficult time.
The Nigerian government must take immediate action to protect its citizens and ensure peace and stability in the region. The cries of the persecuted Christians in Nigeria must be heard, and steps must be taken to bring an end to the violence and persecution they face on a daily basis.
