The African Union Fee (AUC) has rejected latest statements by the US of America accusing the Nigerian authorities of being complicit within the focused killing of Christians and threatening potential navy motion.
In a press release printed on the organisation’s web site on Friday, AU reiterated its unwavering dedication to sovereignty, non-interference, non secular freedom, and the rule of regulation as enshrined within the African Union Constitutive Act and associated devices.
The AUC serves because the secretariat of the African Union and is chargeable for the Union’s day-to-day operations. It’s headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
In accordance with the assertion, the AUC reaffirmed that Nigeria is a longstanding and valued Member State of the African Union, taking part in a key position in regional stability, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping initiatives, and continental integration.
“The AUC absolutely respects Nigeria’s sovereign proper to handle its inside affairs, together with safety, non secular freedom, and human rights, according to its Structure and worldwide obligations. Any exterior engagement should respect Nigeria’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and unity,” the assertion mentioned.
The Fee additionally echoed Nigeria’s constant stance that its Structure ensures freedom of faith and perception, emphasizing that the Nigerian authorities has repeatedly rejected all types of non secular persecution.
Whereas acknowledging that Nigeria faces advanced safety challenges, the AUC famous that these threats have an effect on residents of all faiths.
“Nigeria faces advanced safety challenges affecting residents of all faiths, together with violent extremist {groups}, banditry, communal violence, and resource-based conflicts.
“The AUC rejects any narrative that weaponizes faith or oversimplifies safety challenges. Conflating all violence with a single religious-target narrative could hinder efficient options and destabilize communities,” the assertion mentioned.
In a transparent message to Washington, the AU emphasised that exterior companions ought to have interaction Africa’s largest democracy via diplomatic dialogue, mutual respect, and partnership, not navy threats.
Final week, US President Donald Trump threatened navy motion in opposition to Nigeria and accused the President Bola Tinubu administration of permitting the mass slaughter of Christians.
On Tuesday, the {Economic} Group of West African States additionally formally rejected United States allegations concerning non secular violence in Nigeria, characterizing the claims as inaccurate and doubtlessly destabilizing for regional safety.
