Testimony highlights Fulani attacks on Christian farming communities in Nigeria's Middle Belt
March 13, 2025 | Foreign Affairs: House Committee, Standing Committees - House & Senate, Congressional Hearings Compilation
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The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on March 13, 2025, to discuss the escalating conflict and persecution faced by Christian communities in Nigeria, particularly from militant Fulani Muslim herders. Testimonies highlighted the dire situation in Nigeria, which ranks as the world's deadliest country for Christians, according to the organization Open Doors.
Witnesses emphasized that the Fulani herders pose the greatest threat to Christian farming communities, especially in the Middle Belt states such as Benue, Plateau, and Kaduna. Thousands of Christians have reportedly been killed, and millions displaced due to violent attacks. The testimony of a survivor, identified as Mimi, illustrated the brutal reality faced by these communities. She recounted the horrific attack on her family, which resulted in the death of her daughter and husband, leaving her homeless and traumatized.
The meeting also addressed the Nigerian government's passive response to these attacks, with critics arguing that the federal authorities have failed to protect vulnerable communities. Reports indicate that the government has ignored pleas for military support in areas known for Fulani violence, leading to widespread fear and insecurity among Christian populations.
Concerns were raised about the potential for a systematic plan to Islamize Nigeria, as some northern states impose Sharia law and restrict the operations of Christian institutions. The testimonies pointed to a growing trend of land grabs by Fulani militants, who are accused of targeting Christian farmers not just for grazing rights but to seize control of fertile lands.
The committee discussed the need for the U.S. government to designate Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) due to its severe violations of religious freedom. Advocates argue that such a designation would be a crucial step in addressing the ongoing persecution and could lead to further human rights initiatives.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for international attention and action regarding the violence against Christians in Nigeria, as well as the broader implications for religious freedom and human rights in the region.
Witnesses emphasized that the Fulani herders pose the greatest threat to Christian farming communities, especially in the Middle Belt states such as Benue, Plateau, and Kaduna. Thousands of Christians have reportedly been killed, and millions displaced due to violent attacks. The testimony of a survivor, identified as Mimi, illustrated the brutal reality faced by these communities. She recounted the horrific attack on her family, which resulted in the death of her daughter and husband, leaving her homeless and traumatized.
The meeting also addressed the Nigerian government's passive response to these attacks, with critics arguing that the federal authorities have failed to protect vulnerable communities. Reports indicate that the government has ignored pleas for military support in areas known for Fulani violence, leading to widespread fear and insecurity among Christian populations.
Concerns were raised about the potential for a systematic plan to Islamize Nigeria, as some northern states impose Sharia law and restrict the operations of Christian institutions. The testimonies pointed to a growing trend of land grabs by Fulani militants, who are accused of targeting Christian farmers not just for grazing rights but to seize control of fertile lands.
The committee discussed the need for the U.S. government to designate Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) due to its severe violations of religious freedom. Advocates argue that such a designation would be a crucial step in addressing the ongoing persecution and could lead to further human rights initiatives.
In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgent need for international attention and action regarding the violence against Christians in Nigeria, as well as the broader implications for religious freedom and human rights in the region.
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