Nigerian govt faults Trump on ‘Country of Concern’ designation, Christian genocide claim

By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja

The Nigerian government has described claim by U.S President Donald Trump that extremist groups are massively killing Christians in the country as inaccurate and not reflective of the true security situation in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said this in a statement issued in response President Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern,” over the alleged genocidal killings of Christians.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted that religious freedom has not been impeded in Nigeria and Christians have the freedom to practice their faith across the country contrary to the claim of Trump.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria notes the recent remarks by the US President Donald J. Trump alleging large-scale killings of Christians in Nigeria and calling for the country’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern.”

“While Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, these claims do not reflect the situation on the ground. Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully,” the statement read in part.

It also reiterated the commitment of Tinubu’s administration to the fight against terrorism, fostering interfaith harmony, and safeguarding the lives and rights of all citizens.

“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria remains committed to fighting terrorism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its people,” the statement read.

However, the Ministry said the Nigerian government would continue to engage constructively with the US government to enhance mutual understanding of the country’s security realities and peacebuilding efforts.

The US President had in a statement published on his social media platform said he has directed the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern because of the “existential threat” that has led to killing of many Christians in the country.

The US President had also said he will investigate the claims and take further actions.

The designation of Nigeria as a country of particular concern, a status reserved for nations deemed to be engaging in severe violations of religious freedom, as outlined in the US International Religious Freedom Act followed weeks of campaign by some Republican lawmakers over alleged persecution of Christians in the country.

Trump had similarly placed Nigeria on the list CPC in 2020 during his first term in office following recommendations by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF).

However, the succeeding Joe Biden’s administration removed Nigeria from the list in 2021.