A United States Congressman has labeled Nigeria as the most perilous country for Christians globally. Riley Moore made this statement during an event hosted by the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) on Thursday, where he addressed the issue of Christian persecution worldwide, with a specific focus on Nigeria.
According to Moore, the West African nation poses the greatest risk to individuals who practice Christianity, citing the significant number of Christians killed due to their faith. Since 2009, estimates suggest that between 50,000 to 100,000 Christians have lost their lives, while tens of thousands of churches have been destroyed and millions of Christians displaced.
Moore shared his personal experience visiting Nigeria, where he witnessed firsthand the dire conditions faced by displaced Christians. In Benue State alone, he noted that approximately 600,000 Christians are living in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. He described the scene as tragic, highlighting the harsh conditions under which these individuals are forced to survive.
The Congressman’s remarks underscore the severity of Christian persecution in Nigeria, a country plagued by sectarian violence and terrorist attacks. The USCIRF event aimed to raise awareness about the plight of Christians and other religious minorities facing discrimination and violence worldwide. Moore’s testimony serves as a reminder of the need for international attention and action to address the pressing issue of religious freedom in Nigeria and beyond.
The situation in Nigeria has been exacerbated by the activities of extremist groups, leading to widespread displacement and loss of life. The international community has been urged to take concrete steps to support affected communities and promote religious tolerance. As the global community continues to grapple with the complexities of religious persecution, Moore’s statement emphasizes the importance of protecting the rights of religious minorities and promoting peace and stability in regions affected by conflict.
