Report Unveils Disturbing Truth: Nigeria as One of the Worst Christian Persecutors in 2023

Nigeria, not yet labeled a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ by the U.S. Department of State, has found its place among the harshest oppressors of Christians in the 2023 report by the International Christian Concern (ICC). This report paints a distressing picture of the threats confronting Christians in Nigeria, suggesting that it could be one of the most dangerous locations for Christians on a global scale.

“Nigeria is arguably the most dangerous place to be a Christian in the world today,” the report stated.

The ICC report detailed 55 attacks in Nigeria resulting in the death of 549 Christians during four months from March to July.

It also highlighted the torching of a Catholic seminary and the killing of a seminarian in Kaduna State, as well as the massacre of over 20 people in a Plateau State village by radical militants in August.

A significant part of the persecution is attributed to terrorist groups such as Boko Haram, which has been responsible for more than 38,000 deaths over the past 12 years, and the enforcement of Sharia law in 12 northern states.

“Whether the world acknowledges the plight of Nigerian Christians or not, the country has become a burial ground for Christians,” the report declared.

In addition to Nigeria, the ICC’s report also named nine other countries as oppressive towards Christians. These include North Korea, India, Iran, China, Pakistan, Eritrea, Algeria, Indonesia, and Azerbaijan.

The report identifies patterns of religious suppression, forced labour, violence, and harsh legal restrictions among these nations.

The ICC report also identified six entities, including the Allied Democratic Forces and Al-Shabab, as some of the worst oppressors of religious freedom and minorities.

“Additionally, the report identifies five specific individuals, such as Kim Jong Un from North Korea and Xi Jinping from China, as some of the most notorious global persecutors.

Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that despite the grim findings in the report, the U.S. Department of State has not classified Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern.’

The report emphasizes the urgent requirement for international attention and action to address the widespread persecution of Christians in Nigeria and other nations cited.

The report concludes, stating, “Nigeria is a nation plagued by violence, from well-organized terrorist groups to smaller, isolated communal militias, violence remains deeply entrenched in the country.”