LONDON / WASHINGTON D.C. — Growing global scrutiny over Nigeria’s handling of religiously motivated violence intensified this week as Njenje Media TV London hosted a high-profile international roundtable examining allegations of a “Christian genocide” and the United States’ renewed designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC).
The virtual townhall, part of the network’s State of the Nation Townhall Series, brought together leading scholars, human rights advocates, policymakers, and civic leaders from three continents. Moderated by Maazị Tochukwu Ezeoke, the event drew strong participation from audiences in Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Featured panelists included Prof. Yusuf Turaki, Mayor Mike Arnold, Engr. Mark Lipdo, Rev. (Dr) Ishaku Kabong, Dr. Bolaji O. Akinyemi, and Dr. Tony Nwankwo Nwaezeigwe.
U.S. CPC Redesignation Fuels Global Debate
A major point of discussion was former U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, a move that panelists said reflects worsening conditions for Christian communities.
Dr. Tony Nwankwo Nwaezeigwe argued that the violence in parts of northern and central Nigeria meets the international legal definition of genocide.
“The crime of genocide is defined in international law and cannot be denied,” Dr. Nwaezeigwe said, comparing the Nigerian government’s dismissal of the allegations to “an accused criminal refusing to admit guilt.”
Panelists warned that unless Nigeria demonstrates measurable progress in protecting vulnerable communities, the country could face increasing diplomatic pressure, sanctions, and deeper isolation from international partners.
Calls for Humanitarian Intervention and Security Reform
Speakers assessed whether Nigeria’s security failures justify humanitarian military intervention under international law. Several argued that when a state is unwilling or unable to protect its citizens from mass atrocities, external intervention becomes legally and morally viable.
Panelists highlighted the particularly devastating impact of violence in the Middle Belt, where Christian villages have faced repeated attacks, leading to widespread displacement.
Mayor Mike Arnold emphasized the need for U.S. lawmakers to see conditions on the ground firsthand:
“We need to expose the truth and hold those responsible accountable,” he said, announcing plans to push for a congressional delegation to visit internally displaced persons (IDP) camps in Nigeria.
Challenging the ‘Farmer–Herder’ Narrative
Several speakers rejected the often-cited “farmer-herder conflict” framing. They argued that the term obscures targeted and systemic violence against Christian populations.
Panelists maintained that herder militias are frequently the aggressors, invading farming communities and committing violent attacks. They also noted that extremist groups such as Boko Haram continue to explicitly target Christians, reinforcing the religious dimension of the crisis.
Extensive Documentation of Atrocities
Engr. Mark Lipdo, founder of the Stephanos Foundation, described two decades of documenting attacks on Christian communities in Plateau State. His work includes gathering evidence, collaborating with traditional leaders, and presenting findings to international stakeholders.
Despite extensive documentation, Lipdo lamented the muted response from mainstream global media and international organizations.
Advocacy Efforts and Allegations of Global Complicity
Mayor Mike Arnold discussed ongoing efforts to compile evidence, including potential sanctions lists, for U.S. policymakers. He revealed collaborations with U.S. officials such as Senator Sam Brownback, while expressing concern that international bodies like the United Nations and African Union have “ignored or concealed” documented cases of mass displacement.
Panelists urged Nigerians—particularly those with access to IDP camps—to record testimonies, preserve evidence, and share verifiable accounts to amplify global awareness.
Key Action Points Announced
The roundtable concluded with a series of proposed coordinated steps to escalate awareness and advocacy:
Evidence Collection: Mike Arnold will continue compiling verified evidence and intelligence for sanctions lists.
Congressional Delegation: Arnold will meet with Rep. Riley Moore to push for a U.S. congressional visit to Nigeria.
Coordination with Senator Brownback: Engagement with Senator Sam Brownback’s team to deliver evidence to U.S. decision-makers.
IDP Testimonies: Nigerians are encouraged to document and share firsthand accounts from IDP camps.
Submission of Materials: Engr. Mark Lipdo and Dr Nwaezeigwe will deliver documented evidence of perpetrators to Arnold.
Laduga Safe Haven Issue: Paul Yusuf highlights the alleged Laduga safe haven concerns as grounds for potential military intervention.
Growing Global Concern and Call for Government Action
Speakers reiterated four critical priorities for Nigeria moving forward:
Restoring security in affected regions
Ensuring the safe return of displaced persons
Pursuing justice and prosecuting offenders
Rebuilding destroyed communities
Panelists warned that continued government inaction may deepen Nigeria’s humanitarian crisis and destabilize the broader West African region.
The event ended with a robust question-and-answer session involving participants across Africa, Europe, and North America, underscoring the widening global spotlight on Nigeria’s internal security challenges and allegations of religious persecution.
