501 European Lawmakers Warn Nigerian Govt Over Attacks On Christians

The European Parliament has called on the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to address the country’s worsening security challenges, particularly in the Middle Belt, amid renewed concerns over attacks on communities in the region.

Naijapunchnews reports that the appeal followed the adoption of a resolution by the Parliament, with 501 lawmakers voting in favour, one voting against, and 86 abstaining.

In the resolution, the lawmakers condemned the recurring violence in parts of Nigeria and urged the Federal Government to strengthen security measures, protect vulnerable communities and ensure that those responsible for attacks are brought to justice.

Lawmakers Express Concern Over Plateau Killings

The European Parliament expressed particular concern over the deteriorating security situation in Plateau State, where several communities have experienced repeated attacks in recent months.

The lawmakers specifically referenced the June 22 attack on Kawel village in Bokkos Local Government Area, during which more than 20 Christians, including a pastor, were reportedly killed after armed assailants stormed the community at night.

They urged Nigerian authorities to step up operations against terrorist and extremist groups operating across the country, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Calls for Independent Investigations

The Parliament also called for independent investigations into the recent attacks, stressing the need to end what it described as a culture of impunity.

According to the lawmakers, perpetrators of violent crimes must be identified and prosecuted to restore public confidence and deter future attacks.

They further urged the Nigerian government to strengthen civilian protection mechanisms, improve early warning systems, and invest more resources in conflict prevention and peacebuilding initiatives across affected communities.

‘Nigeria Has Become Dangerous for Christians’

Speaking during deliberations, Slovak lawmaker Miriam Lexmann described the killings in Kawel village as another tragic example of the violence affecting Christian communities in parts of Nigeria.

She said the attack underscored what she described as the growing insecurity facing Christians in the country.

“The horrific attacks in Kawel village where innocent Christians, including their pastor, were brutally killed, are 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.

The resolution adds to growing international calls for Nigeria to strengthen its response to insecurity and protect civilians affected by violent attacks in different parts of the country.