Akpabio genocide claims, Nigeria terrorism victims, U.S. Senate Nigeria debate, Ali Ndume motion, religious violence Nigeria
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has dismissed the narrative suggesting that only Christians have been targeted by terrorist attacks in Nigeria. He stated that both Christians and Muslims have suffered significant casualties over the past decade as a result of terrorism and violent extremism.
Akpabio made the remarks during Thursday’s plenary session of the Senate while responding to a motion moved by Senator Ali Ndume. The motion drew attention to a recent discussion by the United States Senate alleging the existence of genocide against Christians in Nigeria.
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The Senate President expressed concern that some individuals may have presented a one-sided account of Nigeria’s security situation to American lawmakers, thereby distorting the reality on the ground.
“Some people must have gone to the United States and presented a one-sided story, making it seem like only Christians have been killed by terrorists in Nigeria,” Akpabio said. “I can tell you that many Muslims have also lost their lives over the past ten years, just as Christians have.”
Following the deliberation, the Senate resolved to postpone further discussion on the motion until Tuesday next week. Lawmakers are expected to meet in a closed-door session to thoroughly examine the allegations and issue an official response on behalf of the Nigerian government.
Akpabio reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to promoting unity, equity, and religious harmony across the nation. He also emphasized the need for accurate representation of Nigeria’s internal challenges before the international community.