Witnesses Warn of Rising Christian-Muslim Violence Risk in Nigeria

Witnesses, including former US Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom Sam Brownback and former Chair of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Dr. Stephen Schneck, cautioned about the escalating risk of Christian-Muslim violence in Nigeria.

Brownback emphasized Nigeria's status as a flashpoint for religious conflicts, warning of the potential for widespread violence. Schneck identified Nigeria, along with Syria and Sudan, as countries with weak governance leading to religious persecution.

Criticism was directed at the US government's delayed actions under the International Religious Freedom Act, particularly in redesignating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC). Recent engagements between US and Nigerian officials, including discussions on security cooperation, were noted.

The testimonies underscored the urgent need for decisive international action to prevent further violence and protect religious freedoms in Nigeria.