Summary
U.S. comedian Bill Maher claimed that Christians are "systematically killed" in Nigeria due to violence by Islamic militant groups like Boko Haram. This statement has sparked debate, with some Nigerian figures disputing the claim, saying terrorism does not target any specific religion. The discussion draws attention to whether religious groups are being specifically targeted in ongoing violence.
Key Facts
- Bill Maher made comments during his show, saying Christians face systematic killing in Nigeria.
- Boko Haram, an Islamic militant group, is accused of attacking Christian communities in Nigeria.
- Former Nigerian Senator Shehu Sani and others refute Maher's claims, stating terrorists do not pick victims based on religion.
- Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has countered reports of targeted Christian killings, citing misinformation.
- Human rights group Open Doors ranks Nigeria as the seventh-most dangerous country for Christians.
- A report claims over 125,000 Christians and 60,000 "liberal Muslims" have been killed in Nigeria since 2009.
- The Nigerian government has rejected calls from U.S. Congress to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern due to religious freedom issues.
- The U.S. State Department's list of Countries of Particular Concern has not been updated to include Nigeria as of December 2023.
