The federal government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reassured all Nigerians that it remains committed to their security and freedom of worship.
The reassurance was prompted by a recent social media publication by the United States Embassy, Abuja, on the security situation in Nigeria and the testimonies of one Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and Rev. Fr. Remigius Ihyula, on alleged threats that have arisen as a result of their testimonies at the United States Congressional Hearing on Religious Persecution in Nigeria.
The ministry said though their testimonies misrepresented facts and oversimplify a deeply complex national challenge, the religious leaders were entitled to their opinions, freedom of expression and association as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.
A statement issued on Friday by the ministry’s spokesman, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said, “The Nigerian government remains fully committed to upholding freedom of religion and freedom of expression, among other freedoms. Any report of threats or intimidation against religious leaders will be investigated and appropriate action will be taken.
“The assertion that the Nigerian government has ‘allowed the violence to escalate unchecked’ is both inaccurate and unfair. The government has consistently taken decisive actions including deploying security forces to areas affected by communal violence, engaging in peace-building efforts between farmers and herders, strengthening intelligence operations to track down criminal elements and implementing policies to address root causes, including land use reforms and economic development initiatives.”
The statement emphasised that while challenges remain, it is incorrect to suggest that the Nigerian government has been inactive or indifferent. It added that the reality is that Nigeria is fighting multiple security threats, including banditry, terrorism, and organised crime, all of which affect different communities irrespective of religion.
“The current administration values its partnership with the United States and other international allies in addressing security concerns and therefore calls for caution against narratives that risk deepening religious divisions and misrepresenting the situation on the ground, but also enjoins well-meaning partners to join its efforts towards the maintenance of peace and security.
“The federal government will continue to prioritise the protection of the lives and property of its citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity, while strengthening national and international cooperation in the fight against insecurity.
“We therefore call for responsible reporting that reflects the full complexity of the challenges at hand and promotes constructive dialogue rather than polarization.”
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