By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
A former General Secretary of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Rev. Dr. Yunusa Nmadu, has backed claims by some United States senators that Christians in Nigeria are victims of what appears to be a systematic genocide.
Speaking on Thursday during a public presentation and book launch titled Faith, Church and Service to Humanity held in his honour at the Kaduna State University, Nmadu said the killings targeting Christians across the country had assumed a disturbing pattern suggestive of deliberate persecution.
The book, written by the Department of Christian Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts, College of Humanities, Education and Law, Kaduna State University, attracted top military officers, government officials, academics, and religious leaders.
“There are many killings affecting Christian communities in Nigeria. Whether we call it genocide or not is another issue, but what looks like genocide is happening,” he said.
“The government must rise to protect not just Christians but all citizens, because what good is it if everyone dies in the name of politics?”
Nmadu said he aligned with the position of the US lawmakers and urged the Nigerian government to take decisive steps to end the bloodshed.
He, however, acknowledged that the current administration appears to be taking security matters more seriously under the Chief of Defence Staff, but noted that insecurity had deeply infiltrated the nation’s social fabric.
“Some insiders are using insecurity for their own benefit to make the government ungovernable. To solve this, we must identify and cut off the sponsors,” he added.
Reacting to recent comments credited to the Niger State Governor on regulating religious preaching, the cleric faulted the idea, describing it as “ignorant” and a violation of the right to freedom of religion.
“Sometimes, as a pastor, the Holy Spirit can inspire you to say things beyond what you prepared. So, who do we obey, the government or the Holy Spirit?” he asked.
Nmadu also cautioned preachers against using the pulpit to promote division, urging them instead to remain faithful to the teachings of their holy books.
Reviewing the book, Prof. Helen Ando said it was not a mere biographical account of Rev. Nmadu’s life but a deep exploration of his character, values, and engagement in shaping an inclusive and dignified society.
“His involvement in promoting freedom of religion in Nigeria demonstrates how faith leaders can engage with government while practising their religion in harmony,” she said.
“The book captures the intersection of faith, church, and service to humanity, a reflection of the author’s passion for societal transformation.”
Also speaking, the Legal Adviser to the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Barr. Deborah Usman, commended Rev. Nmadu for his exemplary leadership and service to humanity, describing the book written in his honour as a testament to his lasting impact on faith and society.
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