From Ignorance to Awareness: A Personal Journey into the Reality of Christian Persecution in Nigeria
An in-depth dive into the shocking fact that in 2023, more Christians were killed in Nigeria than all other countries combined.
by Eleanor Forshaw, 2024 Fall Associate
It is incredibly easy to subconsciously spare ourselves the emotions and grief of global tragedies, perhaps due to a lack of personal connection or geographical distance. But this time was different. This time, I could put faces, names, and friendships to the shocking reality that more Christians were killed in Nigeria last year than in all other countries combined.
I learned this fact early in my time at the IRF Secretariat and it hit me with an unexpected force, flipping my summer memories on their head. I had spent about ten days in Lagos, Nigeria with the Baptist World Alliance for their annual gathering. My role primarily consisted of supporting the logistical efforts of the event but I also had the greater privilege of interacting with fellow Christians from across the world. Yet, just to the north, the same faith was costing people their lives–and I remained blissfully unaware. Now, I find myself deeply committed to becoming more educated and am here to share what I have discovered with you.
Background
Religious persecution has long been an issue in Nigeria, but recent years have seen unprecedented levels. In 2023, 82% of Christians killed for faith-related reasons were in Nigeria. As per the Nigerian Country Update released in August 2024 by the United States Commission on International Freedom (USCIRF), three main non-state actors are primarily responsible for this persecution: Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Fulani armed groups.
Boko Haram
In 2009, Boko Haram launched an insurgency in northeast Nigeria. Since then, it is estimated that over 50,000 Christians have been killed. The name Boko Haram is shorthand for “Western education is sinful,” and in a 2012 report by the United States Institute of Peace the group was described as “an Islamic sect that believes politics in northern Nigeria has been seized by a group of corrupt, false Muslims. It wants to wage a war against them, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria generally, to create a “pure” Islamic state ruled by sharia law.” By December 2023, the State Department declared the group as an Entity of Particular Concern (EPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998.
The Nigerian government attempted to counter Boko Haram’s extremist activities in 2009 but by 2010 sporadic attacks across the northeast reemerged and have intensified since. Christian villages are frequently burned and destroyed, with inhabitants murdered or abducted. Furthermore, religious sites and figures, such as churches and pastors, are often targeted. This past March, Boko Haram abducted hundreds of individuals, mainly women and children, from an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp hosting many Christians. Another recent incident occurred in July during which a wedding was targeted by female suicide bombers, resulting in 18 deaths and 42 injuries. The funeral for the victims was also targeted.
In states controlled by Boko Haram, discrimination within the justice system is also prevalent due to the implementation of Sharia law. Although Nigeria’s constitution prohibits state and federal governments from adopting official religions, Sharia law is permitted at the state level for non-criminal matters and does not apply to all citizens. Nonetheless, over ten states in Nigeria have adopted Sharia frameworks, and an increasing number are applying them to criminal proceedings. Nigeria is currently one of seven places worldwide where the death penalty can be imposed for alleged blasphemy, impacting not only Christians but also Muslims and others who dissent from prevailing voices.
ISWAP
The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) emerged from a split within Boko Haram back in 2016, driven largely by differences in opinions on governance and treatment of civilians. ISWAP is often regarded as sparing Muslims more than Boko Haram, which tends to target populations without always distinguishing religious affiliations. ISWAP has also been more notably active in southern states, with their activities closely linked to competition over resources, particularly oil. Christian communities have been especially affected by the resource-driven violence. There has been a decline in ISWAP’s activities in 2023 and 2024, possibly due to a shift in focus to counter Boko Haram or efforts to rearm. However, a video was recently released by the group documenting the execution of three kidnapped Christians.
Fulani Armed Groups
In the Middle Belt region of Nigeria, there has been a rise in armed groups composed of Fulani members. There are an estimated 30,000 individuals associated with various groups that range in size from 10 to 1,000 members. Their attacks are predominantly aimed at Christians and include kidnapping, rape, property theft, and murder. Motivations behind these actions are varied but exacerbated by competition for natural resources, driven by climate change effects such as increased desertification. This has intensified tensions between often-Christian farmers and predominantly-Muslim Fulani herders. A recurring tactic used by Fulani bandits is the abduction of children, mainly targeting Christian schools or intercepting students traveling to and from school. As recently as March 7th, 287 children aged seven to 15 were abducted in a single incident.
Other Religious Minorities at Risk
Christians are not the only ones facing religious persecution in Nigeria. As mentioned, groups like Boko Haram often disregard the specific religious affiliations of individuals if they are seen as obstacles to their power. Therefore, many instances prove that Muslims who deviate from the dominant discourse are also at significant risk.
In 2020 a man named Yahaya Sharif-Aminu was arrested for allegedly committing blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad. His house was likewise burned down by an angry mob. Yahaya, a Suni Muslim from Kano State, had his conviction overturned in 2021, but was ordered to a retrial. He has now appealed to the Supreme Court to reverse the retrial order and have the case dismissed, partly because Sharia-based blasphemy law is unconstitutional and against international law.
Fulani bandits have also repeatedly targeted Muslims. During Friday prayers at a local mosque, two people were murdered while many others were kidnapped in March. A month later, more Muslims were abducted from a mosque while performing overnight (tahajjud) prayers.
Nigerian Federal Government Response
Alongside religious persecution, Nigeria is grappling with a significant humanitarian crisis. More than 2 million people are displaced and around 8 million people are in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, over 80% of whom are women and children. High levels of corruption within the national government only heighten the situation. Nigeria ranks 145th out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perceptions Index, as reported by Transparency International. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) claims that corruption occurs at all levels of government in Nigeria. This is a major barrier to the effectiveness of governmental commitments, as seen in the lack of ability to address issues of religious freedom. The repeated kidnappings carried out by Fulani bandits have led to strong criticism from victims’ families, who accuse the Nigerian government of lacking urgency, transparency, and effective prevention and support strategies. Additionally, the government’s closure of several IDP camps in the northeast has further worsened conditions for Christians.
The government has made attempts to improve the situation, but mistakes have occurred along the way. Security forces have been deployed and yet their presence has been accompanied by human rights abuses. In one instance, an army unit fired on Christian students protesting Fulani attacks. Likewise, since 2013, the military has forced countless women to undergo abortions, following pregnancies resulting from rape by Islamist insurgents.
Some measures have been implemented to address internal government issues, including the use of independent investigators. These efforts have exposed corruption in groups like the Nigeria Customs Service, where individuals have accepted bribes to allow heavily regulated motorcycles into the country. This is significant because motorcycles are frequently used in extremist attacks. Despite these initial measures, it is clear that much more progress is needed to effectively combat corruption and allow for improved crisis response.
Foreign Government Responses
In addition to criticisms of the Nigerian government’s actions, foreign governments have also faced condemnation, especially the United States. During the Trump administration, Nigeria was classified as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under IRFA. However, the Biden administration removed this classification. CPCs are defined as “countries whose governments either engage in or tolerate “particularly severe violations” of religious freedom.” This classification enables not only informal diplomatic pressure but also formal policy options that can only be applied to those designated as CPCs. Specific actions can include suspension of American security assistance or prohibiting U.S. financial institutions from offering loans or credit to the intended government. Without the CPC designation, America is limited to measures like public condemnation or the cancellation of state visits.
Given the close relationship between the U.S. and Nigeria, the lack of CPC classification means that the Nigerian government faces less direct influence to address issues of religious freedom. However, Congress remains actively seeking applied pressure. In the House of Representatives, a resolution (H.Res.82) passed in February within the Foreign Affairs Committee calling for an increased U.S. response to the persecution happening in Nigeria. Similarly, the Senate introduced a resolution in the same month urging the State Department to expand its support for religious freedom by having it be a core element of U.S. foreign policy. Europe is also increasingly aware of the situation; this has led to discussions in the British Parliament and condemnations of Nigeria’s blasphemy laws by the European Parliament.
Interview with Sean Nelson, Legal Counsel of Global Religious Freedom for ADF International
I recently interviewed Sean Nelson, a dedicated advocate for religious freedom in Nigeria, consistently working to highlight these issues. In his efforts, he has authored multiple articles, including one titled “Why Nigeria is the Most Dangerous Country in the World for Christians.” Sean described various instances of Christian persecution he had been told firsthand. One particularly disturbing incident occurred during Christmastime of 2023 in Plateau State. Pastors and churches were targeted throughout the holiday season, and on the night of Christmas Eve, a pastor was taken from his home near his church, brought behind the church, killed, and beheaded.
Sean then spoke on how the Nigerian government handles these atrocities. He noted that it is rare for attackers who are not formally associated with terrorist organizations to be identified and properly prosecuted. It is also uncommon for security to significantly improve within targeted communities. Even if a village is fortunate enough to receive enhanced security, it rarely lasts long. This is largely due to the federalist system in Nigeria. Although it is similar to that of the U.S., there are some key differences. For example, security forces are entirely federal in Nigeria. Because there are no police forces at any other level of government, state governors in Nigeria are constrained by limited resources and struggle to provide adequate security. This highlights the need for improved governance, not only after-the-fact but preemptively as well.
Sean likewise offered additional ideas on how to address the issue, for both domestic and international actors. Domestically, he emphasized the crucial role of religious leaders; peaceful voices from across the religious spectrum must be amplified. He noted that imams in the north who advocate for religious tolerance could have a significant impact by exerting pressure on state governments. Internationally, there is room for improvement. Although the U.S. may shy away from enacting formal condemnation, whether that be by classifying Nigeria as a CPC or other means, such a designation would not damage the U.S.-Nigeria relationship. In fact, it could strengthen it because addressing the atrocities may encourage more investment in Nigerian industries, which are currently suffering due to political concerns.
I had found religion was rarely mentioned throughout the discourse on the conflicts in Nigeria. I was curious as to what Seans thoughts were on why this was the case. He acknowledged that while there are certainly many factors contributing to the conflict, religion cannot be overlooked. The lack of focus on religious issues may stem from concerns about how to address religious language, fears of weaponizing religions, and an ongoing perception that religion is a problem rather than a solution.
Comments from Akanji Tabitha Tijesun (Legal Practitioner)
To conclude this piece, I am including the perspective of a dear friend of mine who generously agreed to share her insights. I met Tabitha during my time in Nigeria; she is a legal practitioner and Nigerian local who has spent significant time in the northern regions of the country. Both of her parents are also from the north. Although Tabitha represents only one viewpoint, her insights offer valuable and meaningful contributions.
Tabitha offered her thoughts on the conflict, including opinions on the role of the national and foreign governments. Her overview of the conflict reaffirmed what has previously been discussed: Christians are predominantly persecuted, the northern judicial systems are increasingly marked by injustice, and Boko Haram is correctly identified as a terrorist organization. Tabitha also emphasized that even though the Nigerian government and international response has been lackluster, the national government primarily bears the responsibility to address the crisis.
When responding to what the perceptions across Nigeria are, Tabitha observed that they vary across the country. Some people are actively engaged, offering aid, prayer, visitations, peaceful protests, and other forms of support. Others are largely unaware of the situation in the north. This divide is attributed to factors such as a lack of information and a general unawareness of religious discrimination. For example, in the western part of the country, many interfaith families – comprising Christians, Muslims, and traditionalists – live together harmoniously. In these diverse communities, religious conflict is less common, leading to a lower level of awareness about the issues affecting other regions.
Tabitha also shared her personal experiences and those of people she knows. Poignantly, she stated that “What was once called home for many is a painful memory.” Though not citing specifics, she noted having friends and family who have died, been forced to flee their homes, or lost property. She also recounted her own experiences of driving past shops where she used to buy groceries, now reduced to ashes, and has faced security measures such as curfews and police checkpoints. Unfortunately, anyone living in the north of the country has experienced the conflict in one way or another, according to Tabitha.
But is it even possible to take tragic realities such as this and use them to create something meaningful? Oftentimes this feels far from possible but first and foremost, we must understand that religious freedom is not just an abstract ideal–it is foundational to peace. It is a right that every person deserves, and one we cannot afford to stop fighting for.
In response to these thoughts, my final question to Tabitha concerned how she felt, as a Christian, about the atrocities being committed against fellow Christians in Nigeria. Her response, which was the last statement in the document she sent me, feels like the perfect closing sentiment here:
“There should be religious freedom and no one should have to undergo any form of discrimination due to their religious identity and ideology. I hope and pray that change will come and there will be peaceful co-existence irrespective of religion.”
Creating peace means bridging religious divides, not letting them destroy us.
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References
ADF International. (2024, February). US Congress Members challenge Biden Admin over Nigeria’s egregious violations of religious freedom. Retrieved from https://adfinternational.org/news/us-nigeria-resolution
ADF International. (2024, June). Why Nigeria is the Most Dangerous Country in the World for Christians. Retrieved from https://adfinternational.org/commentary/nigeria-most-dangerous-country-christians
AP. (2024, March). They went to school but ended up as hostages. 287 children are missing in Nigeria’s forests. Retrieved from
https://apnews.com/article/nigeria-kaduna-abduction-gunmen-kuriga-1c2f6765916fb702c87a13f335c9a07f
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. (2019, May). Stabilizing Northeast Nigeria After Boko Haram. Retrieved from https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2019/05/stabilizing-northeast-nigeria-after-boko-haram?lang=en
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https://www.newsweek.com/religious-persecution-nigeria-getting-worse-opinion-1875640
Newsweek. (2022, November). Why Nigeria’s Potential Landmark Case Challenging Its Blasphemy Law Matters | Opinion. Retrieved from https://www.newsweek.com/why-nigerias-potential-landmark-case-challenging-its-blasphemy-law-matters-opinion-1761894
Open Doors. (n.d.). Nigeria: What does persecution look like in Nigeria? Retrieved from
https://www.opendoorsus.org/en-US/persecution/countries/nigeria/
Transparency International. (2024, February). Our Work in Nigeria. Retrieved from https://www.transparency.org/en/countries/nigeria
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USAID. (2024, August). Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance. Retrieved from https://www.usaid.gov/nigeria/democracy-human-rights-and-governance#:~:text=Corruption%20pervades%20the%20daily%20lives,government%20and%20advocate%20for%20change.
USCIRF. (2021, March). Factsheet: International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA). Retrieved from https://www.uscirf.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/2021%20Legislation%20Factsheet%20-%20IRFA.pdf
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