EU Parliament Urges Nigeria To Act Against Rising Insecurity

The European Parliament has called on the Nigerian government to take stronger action against insecurity, particularly in the Middle Belt region, following concerns over repeated attacks affecting communities across the area.

A total of 501 lawmakers supported a resolution condemning the violence and urging Nigerian authorities to improve security measures, protect vulnerable groups and ensure that those responsible for attacks face justice. Only one lawmaker voted against the resolution, while 86 members abstained.

The lawmakers highlighted growing concerns over the security situation in parts of Nigeria, especially Plateau State, where several communities have experienced repeated attacks in recent months. They specifically referenced the June 22 attack on Kawel village in Bokkos Local Government Area, where more than 20 Christians, including a pastor, were reportedly killed during a night attack by armed assailants.

The European Parliament urged Nigeria to increase efforts against terrorist organisations operating in the country, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). It also called for independent investigations into violent incidents and warned against allowing a culture of impunity to continue.

The lawmakers asked the Federal Government to strengthen civilian protection, improve early warning systems and invest more in conflict prevention strategies across affected communities.

Slovak lawmaker Miriam Lexmann described the Kawel attack as another painful example of violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria. She said, “The horrific attacks in Kawel village where innocent Christians including their pastor were brutally killed is yet another tragic reminder of escalating violence against Christians in communities in Nigeria.

“Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Nigeria has become one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian,” Lexmann said.

How can Nigeria and international partners work together more effectively to address insecurity?