501 European lawmakers warn Nigerian Govt over attacks on Christians
European Parliament Urges Nigerian Government to Address Insecurity
The European Parliament has called on the Nigerian government to take immediate and effective measures to combat insecurity, particularly in the Middle Belt region, amid concerns over ongoing attacks on Christian communities.
In a recent vote, 501 lawmakers supported a resolution condemning the violence, emphasizing the need for improved security measures to protect vulnerable populations and ensure that those responsible for the attacks are held accountable. The resolution received overwhelming support, with only one vote against it and 86 abstentions.
Lawmakers have expressed alarm over the deteriorating security situation in Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State, where communities have faced repeated assaults in recent months. They referenced a June 22 attack on Kawel village in Bokkos Local Government Area, which resulted in the deaths of more than 20 Christians, including a pastor, during a night raid by armed assailants.
The resolution calls for increased efforts from Nigerian authorities to combat terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). It also demands independent investigations into the violent incidents and highlights the necessity of ending what lawmakers described as a culture of impunity.
Additionally, the parliament urged the Nigerian government to enhance civilian protection mechanisms, improve early warning systems, and invest in conflict prevention strategies across affected regions.
Miriam Lexmann, a Slovak lawmaker, characterized the killings in Kawel as a tragic example of the violence targeting Christian populations in Nigeria. She stated, “The horrific attacks in Kawel village where innocent Christians, including their pastor, were brutally killed, is yet another tragic reminder of escalating violence against Christians.”
Lexmann continued, “Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Nigeria has become one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian.”
