501 European lawmakers warn Nigerian Govt over attacks on Christians

The European Parliament has asked the Nigerian government to take decisive action against insecurity in the country, especially in the Middle Belt region.

This came amid growing concerns over attacks on Christian communities in the region.

No fewer than 501 lawmakers voted in support of a resolution condemning the killings, urging Nigerian authorities to improve security measures, protect vulnerable communities and ensure that perpetrators of violence are brought to justice.

The lawmakers passed the resolution with overwhelming support, with only one lawmaker voting against it while 86 abstained.

The expressed worry over the worsening security situation in parts of Nigeria, particularly in Plateau State, where several communities have come under repeated attacks in recent months.

They pointed at the June 22 attack on Kawel village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, where over 20 Christians, including a pastor, were reportedly killed during a night raid by armed assailants.

According to the lawmakers, Nigerian authorities must intensify efforts against terrorist groups operating across the country, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP.

The parliament equally demanded independent investigations into violent attacks and stressed the need to end what they described as a culture of impunity.

It called on the Federal Government to strengthen civilian protection mechanisms, improve early warning systems and invest in conflict prevention efforts across affected regions.

Slovak lawmaker, Miriam Lexmann, described the killings in Kawel community of Plateau State as another tragic example of the violence affecting Christian populations in parts of the country.

“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 in communities in Nigeria.

“Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Nigeria has become one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian,” Lexmann said.