The Federal Government has strongly criticized a recent social media post by the United States Embassy in Abuja and testimonies presented at a U.S. Congressional hearing on religious persecution in Nigeria, describing the claims as inaccurate and a misrepresentation of the country’s security efforts.
In a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government expressed concern over the publication and the testimonies of Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and Rev. Fr. Remigius Ihyula, which it said oversimplify a complex national security situation.
“Though their testimonies misrepresent facts and oversimplify a deeply complex national challenge, the religious leaders are entitled to their opinions, freedom of expression, and association as enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution,” the statement noted.
The Ministry rejected claims that the Nigerian government has allowed violence to escalate unchecked, calling such assertions “both inaccurate and unfair.” It stressed that the government has taken “decisive actions” including deploying security forces, initiating peace-building efforts, enhancing intelligence operations, and introducing policies to address root causes of violence such as land disputes and poverty.
“It is incorrect to suggest that the Nigerian government has been inactive or indifferent. The reality is that Nigeria is battling multiple security threats—banditry, terrorism, and organized crime—that affect communities regardless of religious identity,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment to religious freedom and freedom of expression, the government promised to investigate any threats made against religious leaders and take appropriate actions.
The Ministry also rejected narratives that frame the crisis as an “Islamist extermination” of Christians, emphasizing that the government remains focused on protecting all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity. It called for responsible reporting and urged all parties to promote dialogue over division.
“We therefore call for responsible reporting that reflects the full complexity of the challenges at hand and promotes constructive dialogue rather than polarization,” the Ministry added.
