The European Parliament has called on the Nigerian government to take urgent and decisive action to address the worsening insecurity across the country, with particular focus on the Middle Belt, following renewed attacks on Christian communities.
In a resolution adopted by an overwhelming majority, 501 members of the European Parliament voted in favour of condemning the killings, while one lawmaker voted against the motion and 86 abstained.
The lawmakers expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation, especially in Plateau State, where several communities have suffered repeated attacks in recent months.
The resolution specifically referenced the June 22 attack on Kawel village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, where more than 20 Christians, including a pastor, were reportedly killed during a night raid by armed attackers.
The Parliament urged Nigerian authorities to strengthen security operations, protect vulnerable communities, and ensure that those responsible for the violence are identified and prosecuted.
It also called on the Federal Government to intensify its fight against terrorist groups operating in the country, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), while demanding independent investigations into the attacks to end what lawmakers described as a “culture of impunity.”
Additionally, the European Parliament urged Nigeria to enhance civilian protection measures, improve early warning systems, and invest in conflict prevention strategies across affected regions.
Speaking during the debate, Slovak lawmaker Miriam Lexmann described the killings in Kawel as another tragic example of the escalating violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria.
“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 and communities in Nigeria,” Lexmann said.
“Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Nigeria has become one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian,” she added.
Comments