The United States government Has warned of a “grave threat” to religious
liberty in Nigeria that requires the urgent attention of the President
Mohammadu Buhari administration.
“The right to freedom of worship is a cherished constitutional right” in
Nigeria that must be protected, said John Kirby spokesperson for the
State Department.
“Respect for the rule of law and the civil rights of all segments of
society is a hallmark of democracy. As the White Paper notes, We encourage
the people and the government of Nigeria to support these fundamental
principles, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or region.”
We also encourage the federal government to act on the Abuja high court’s
decision on December 2 that IMN leader Ibrahim Zakzaky and his wife should
be released from prison within 45 days, as they have been held without
charge since the events of last December.”
“On December 5th, the Kaduna State Government in Nigeria issued a
long-awaited White Paper on clashes last year that resulted in the deaths
of a reported 348 civilians and one soldier. We fully agree with the White
Paper’s recommendation that members of the military who were involved in
the unlawful killing of civilians must be held accountable and punished
appropriately. As the one-year anniversary of this tragic event
approaches, we call on the federal government to be diligent, transparent,
and expeditious in following through on this recommendation.”
“We are concerned by the White Paper’s characterization of the Islamic
Movement of Nigeria (IMN) as an “insurgent group,” and urge the Nigerian
government at every level to seek pathways for non-violent engagement with
all citizens, including minority religious groups.
“We note reports that the IMN has taken actions that have undermined
public order and safety. We call on the IMN to respect public order and
cooperate with law enforcement authorities as they carry out their lawful
duties.”