Tensions Rise As Religious Leader Alleges “Systematic Silence” On Targeted Killings
A prominent cleric from Plateau State has issued a stern warning to the Tinubu-led Federal Government, threatening to file a case at the International Criminal Court (ICC) over what he describes as “continued genocide and targeted killings of Christians” across parts of Nigeria.
The cleric, identified as Rev. Dr. Samuel Dachomo, spoke during a press briefing in Jos, where he condemned both the government and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for what he termed “deliberate silence in the face of mass slaughter.”
“Enough is enough,” Dachomo declared. “We have watched our people being killed in their homes, churches, and farms while the government offers excuses and CAN looks away. If Nigeria refuses to act, we will take this matter to The Hague.”
⚖️ The ICC Threat
Rev. Dachomo, who leads a coalition of Plateau-based Christian groups, said the team has already compiled evidence, eyewitness accounts, and photographs to be presented before the ICC’s Office of the Prosecutor in The Hague.
According to him, the petition accuses the Nigerian government of failing to prevent or prosecute mass killings that amount to crimes against humanity.
“This is not just about Plateau. It’s about the entire Middle Belt and the systematic cleansing of Christians,” he said. “The international community must now intervene because our government has failed in its duty to protect.”
🕯️ Allegations of Complicity Against CAN
The cleric also accused the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) of betraying its mandate to defend the faith community.
“CAN has become a political tool rather than a prophetic voice,” Dachomo alleged. “Its leaders dine with those in power while the blood of believers cries from the ground.”
Several local pastors echoed his concerns, calling for a nationwide prayer and protest march to demand justice for victims of attacks in Plateau, Benue, and Kaduna States.
🪖 Government’s Position
When contacted, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Information dismissed the allegations as “unfounded and inflammatory,” insisting that the federal government remains committed to protecting all Nigerians regardless of religion or ethnicity.
“This administration has consistently supported peace and security initiatives across the North Central region,” the spokesperson said. “We urge religious leaders to work with government rather than politicize tragedy.”
Meanwhile, security agencies have intensified patrols in volatile communities following recent attacks in Bokkos and Mangu Local Government Areas.
🌍 International Implications
Legal experts note that while the ICC rarely prosecutes cases against sitting governments without strong evidence, a well-documented submission could attract global attention and possibly pressure the Nigerian government to act more decisively.
Human rights groups, including Amnesty International Nigeria, have repeatedly accused security forces of failing to protect vulnerable communities, urging transparent investigations into religiously motivated violence.
💡 The Bigger Picture
The cleric’s ICC threat comes amid a wave of renewed global focus on Nigeria’s religious violence, particularly following statements from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently warned of potential U.S. “intervention” if killings continue.
Observers say the Plateau cleric’s move could mark the beginning of a coordinated international campaign for justice spearheaded by faith-based organizations.
📰 Full Story Developing…
Follow for updates as Rev. Dachomo’s legal team finalizes their ICC petition and Nigeria’s response unfolds.
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