Trump’s ‘country of concern’ designation over genocide claims not reflection of Nigeria’s inter-faith unity – FG
The federal government of Nigeria has rejected US President Donald Trump’s move to tag Nigeria a “country of particular concern” over Christian genocide claims.
According to Trump in a social post on Friday, “Christianity is facing an existential threat in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being killed”.
The US president blamed radical Islamists for the “mass slaughter”.
Reacting to the claim in a statement on Saturday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the ministry of foreign affairs, the federal government said the claims do not reflect the realities on the ground, and that Nigerians of all faiths have long lived, worked, and worshipped together peacefully.
The statement furthered that while Nigeria appreciates global concern for human rights and religious freedom, the allegations are misleading and contrary to the government’s sustained efforts to promote peace and unity, adding that Nigeria will continue to engage constructively with the US government to deepen mutual understanding of regional dynamics and the country’s ongoing peace and security efforts
“Nigeria remains committed to fighting terrorism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and protecting the lives and rights of all its people under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.
In early September, Ted Cruz, a US senator, proposed a bill seeking to protect “persecuted” Christians in Nigeria.
Source: TheCable
