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The Federal Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday pledged Nigeria's commitment to security and religious freedom, rasing concerns over a recent social media publication by the United States Embassy, Abuja, regarding the security situation in Nigeria and the testimonies provided by Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and Rev. Fr. Remigius Ihyula.
The Federal Government maintained that it 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; implementing policies to address root causes, including land use reforms and economic development initiatives to address security challenges facing the country.
The ministry in a statement by its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa however stressed that though their testimonies misrepresent facts and oversimplification of a deeply complex national challenge, said the religious leaders are entitled to their opinions, freedom of expression, and association as enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution.
The statement reads in parts; "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs observes with concerns a recent social media publication by the United States Embassy, Abuja, regarding the security situation in Nigeria and the testimonies provided by Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and Rev. Fr. Remigius Ihyula, on the unfortunate alleged threats that have arisen as a result of their testimonies at the U.S. Congressional Hearing on Religious Persecution in Nigeria.
"The assertion that the Nigerian government has “allowed the violence to escalate unchecked” is both inaccurate and unfair."
"It is important to state that, while challenges remain, it is incorrect to suggest that the Nigerian government has been inactive or indifferent. The reality is that Nigeria is fighting multiple security threats, including banditry, terrorism, and organized crime, all of which affect different communities irrespective of religion.
"The Nigerian government remains fully committed to upholding freedom of religion and freedom of expression, among other freedoms. Therefore, any reports of threats or intimidation against religious leaders will be investigated, and appropriate actions will be taken. Nigeria values its partnership with the United States and other international allies in addressing security concerns, it not only urges 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.
"Nigeria acknowledges the concerns raised but firmly rejects the portrayal of the crisis as an “Islamist extermination” of Christians. Government will continue to prioritize the protection of the lives and property of it’s 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."