Abuja – The Nigerian government has rejected claims of targeted religious killings within the country. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that these claims are misleading. The ministry said the claims intend to influence foreign governments to label Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
Government Response
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the acting spokesperson, said, “Nigeria remains a beacon of religious tolerance and coexistence in Africa.” The government is committed to preserving this, he added.
The ministry admitted there are security problems. But, it said these events are not religiously motivated. They do not target any particular faith group. The ministry noted that problems in the mostly Muslim northern area are not aimed at any specific religious group.
The government deployed security forces and improved intelligence gathering. Security agencies are also working together.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs asked the international community to check information before making statements. Such statements could increase tensions in Nigeria. It also asked the media, groups, and partners to avoid spreading claims that are not verified. These claims could harm national unity. The government welcomes helpful talk and support, but it rejects any attempt to misrepresent the situation or divide Nigerians. The focus keyword, religious killings, is present in the article.