Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Freedom of Religion and Belief in Nigeria

06 February 2024 · 4 other contributors · 10,346 words

Opened by Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

Responding minister: Leo Docherty

Foreign AffairsReligion & Faith

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jim Shannon raised concerns about freedom of religion and belief in nigeria in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about the murder and persecution of Christians by Fulani tribesmen, with over 200 killed at Christmas last year.
  • The MP highlights broader discrimination based on religion or belief, exacerbated by the availability of weapons in Nigeria.
  • The MP asks the Minister for details on discussions with Nigeria about ensuring sharia law does not take precedence over Christians' beliefs and steps taken to address institutional bias in security forces.

Key requests to Government

The MP asks the Minister for further details on what discussions have taken place with Nigeria regarding ensuring that sharia law does not take precedence over Christians' beliefs across Nigeria, as well as any steps being taken to address institutional bias in security forces' responses to violence against different religious communities.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

The MP is concerned about the murder and persecution of Christians by Fulani tribesmen, with over 200 killed at Christmas last year. He also highlights broader discrimination based on religion or belief, exacerbated by weapons availability in Nigeria. The MP is frustrated that the Nigerian government has not taken sufficient action since his visit to address the issues raised. There are concerns about ethnic and religious tensions leading to violence against civilians and violations of freedom of religion or belief.

Other contributors (4)
  • David Linden Lab Glasgow East

    Expressed appreciation for the work of Jim Shannon and Fiona Bruce on religious freedom. Raised concerns about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, particularly Leah Sharibu's case. Criticised the Nigerian Government's lack of protection during Christmas 2023, resulting in over 1,500 homes burned and 8 churches destroyed. Called for safe routes for refugees fleeing religious persecution to avoid criminalisation. Stressed the need for UK to reinstate ODA spending at 0.7% of GNI despite reductions. Condemned the Prime Minister's comments on deporting refugees.

  • Fiona Bruce Con Congleton

    Fiona Bruce thanked the hon. Member for bringing attention to the persecution of people based on their religion or beliefs and highlighted the need for immediate help following attacks, such as rehousing victims in Plateau state. She mentioned that Christians are increasingly targeted with over 5,000 killed per year compared to 3,600 four years ago. Bruce also raised concerns about international funding supporting weapons used by herders involved in conflicts and questioned the source of these supplies. The hon. Member for Congleton intervened on multiple occasions, highlighting the need for more tactical and advantageous ways of assisting Nigeria through helicopter support to help the army against terrorist groups. I have had a conversation with the Foreign Secretary, Lord Cameron, about the issue of freedom of religion or belief and persecution across the world. The Foreign Secretary personally shares concerns regarding those who are persecuted or discriminated against due to their religious beliefs. The hon. Lady makes an excellent point, stating that unless efforts are made to bring perpetrators of atrocities to account, impunity will continue and more attacks can occur. Fiona Bruce also noted that while climate change is a cause of the situation in Nigeria, extremist groups are hijacking this issue for their own agendas, bringing arms and materials to fuel violence. Fiona Bruce discussed the case of Yahaya Sharif-Aminu, a 19-year-old Sufi Muslim sentenced to death for blasphemy in Kano state. She urged the Minister to advocate on his behalf as he awaits the Supreme Court hearing and highlighted the need for immediate support for those who suffer from atrocities like the one that occurred at Owo.

  • Gregory Campbell DUP East Londonderry

    Gregory Campbell paid tribute to his hon. Friend for securing the debate and noted an increase in Christian killings, from 3,600 per year four years ago to nearly 5,000 now. He mentioned tabling a motion last week to highlight the issue and seek action internationally.

  • Lyn Brown Lab West Ham

    Expressed concern over violations of freedom of religion and belief in Nigeria, including attacks on Christian communities and the need for impartial investigations. Highlighted the role of climate change in exacerbating conflicts between farmers and herders. Emphasised the importance of addressing legal and administrative discrimination against Christians and supporting interfaith work.

Government Response

Leo Docherty

The minister highlighted the UK Government's efforts to support Nigeria in upholding religious freedom. He noted over 4,000 Christians killed last year alone and the constitutional obligation for Nigerian Government to ensure safety for all. The government supports peace and resilience through a £38 million programme targeting intercommunal conflict causes. Since 2022, they contributed £66.8 million in humanitarian aid. They condemn Boko Haram's attacks and work with local communities and police forces.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy