The Federal Government has formally rejected a U.S. Embassy security advisory and testimonies by Nigerian clergy before Congress, labeling the characterizations of Nigeria’s security situation as “inaccurate and unfair.”
In a strongly-worded statement, Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa dismissed claims that violence was escalating unchecked, citing ongoing military operations across six geopolitical zones and recent successes against terrorist groups.
The rebuttal specifically addressed testimonies by Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and Rev. Fr. Remigius Ihyula about religious persecution, maintaining that Nigeria’s security challenges affect all communities regardless of faith.
While affirming constitutional protections for religious freedom, the government cautioned against “oversimplified narratives” that could inflame tensions, pledging to investigate any threats against the testifying clergymen.
The statement highlighted 14 major counterterrorism operations conducted this year and noted improved security in previously volatile regions.
