The Commission of the Bishops' Conferences of the European Union (COMECE) has reiterated its concern over the persecution faced by Christian communities in Nigeria, emphasizing the religious dimension of the recent Christmas massacre in the country. While acknowledging a European resolution condemning the December 2023 attack by Muslim Fulani militants, COMECE has criticized the resolution for downplaying the religious causes of the violence.

In the adopted resolution, the European Parliament (MEP) condemned the massacre in central Nigeria, where over 200 Christians were killed, 8 churches were burned down, and thousands were displaced. However, MEPs highlighted climate change and resource competition as factors in the conflict, which COMECE contends overlooks the religious terrorism perpetrated against Christians.

Father Manuel Barrios Prieto, General Secretary of COMECE, emphasized that environmental and economic pressures cannot fully explain the coordinated and systematic attacks by Fulani Islamist terrorists on Christian communities. He pointed out that the violence against Christians in Nigeria is not isolated, citing recent attacks and the displacement of millions in Benue State.

COMECE called on the European Union to take more decisive action to protect citizens in Nigeria, urging robust measures and diplomatic efforts to address the persecution of Christians. It also emphasized the need for accountability for perpetrators of violence, noting the impunity enjoyed by jihadist groups and Fulani militants.

The situation in Nigeria remains dire for Christians, with the country ranking as the deadliest place for Christians to live, according to Open Doors, an advocacy organization supporting persecuted Christians worldwide. The Islamist Boko Haram insurgency and the pervasive threat of kidnappings for ransom continue to terrorize Christians and undermine security in the region.

In light of recent incidents, including the abduction of two Claretian missionaries in Plateau State, the EU Bishops underscore the urgent need for international attention and action to address religious persecution and insecurity in Nigeria.