Most Reverend Matthew Hassan Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, has requested that the global community refrain from classifying Nigeria again as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), a designation linked to accusations of religious persecution.
He cautioned that such a measure could hinder current initiatives aimed at promoting interfaith dialogue and peace.
Bishop Kukah delivered this appeal during the presentation of the Aid to the Church in Need (ACIN) 2025 World Report on Religious Freedom in the World, which took place on October 21 at the Augustinianum Hall in Vatican City.
The bishop acknowledged Nigeria’s significant issues but maintained that the country should be assisted, not penalized, in its struggle against national discord and religious violence.
The 1,248-page report highlights a worldwide deterioration in religious freedom, noting that over 5.4 billion people reside in nations where these rights are limited.
It further identifies authoritarianism, religious extremism, ethno-religious nationalism, and organized crime as major causes of global persecution.
In his address, “A Plea and Testimony from Nigeria,” the Bishop argued that despite Nigeria’s continuing battle with terrorism, insecurity, and ethnic tensions, the situation isn’t merely the targeted persecution of Christians.
He stated, “People aren’t simply roaming around with machetes with the sole purpose of killing me because I’m a Christian.”
He added, “I reside and work in Sokoto, which is an Islamic heartland, where cooperation between Muslims and Christians is still achievable. Our story ought to be characterized by a more positive account.”
Nonetheless, the cleric conceded that Nigeria’s escalating security crisis has led to circumstances that he termed “genocide” in specific communities, attributing this to the failure of both federal and state governments to stop the violence and safeguard their citizens.
About The Author
