By: Sunday Ameh
The General Superintendent of the Assemblies of God Nigeria, Rev. Paul Emeka, has urged the Nigerian government to seek collaboration with the United States to address the persistent killings and terrorist attacks across the country, particularly those targeting Christians.
Speaking during the Peniel 2025 Annual National Revival Summit held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, Rev. Emeka decried what he described as “systematic genocide” against Christians, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act decisively to end the bloodshed.
Reacting to the recent statement by U.S. President Donald Trump, who designated Nigeria over alleged Christian persecution, the cleric faulted the government’s attempts to dismiss such reports, saying the reality of targeted killings could no longer be hidden.
“It is a reality that Christians are being killed in large numbers. In Jos, in Maiduguri, and all over the North, Christians are being killed almost daily,” he said. “Where you have one thousand casualties, nine hundred and ninety-nine are Christians. We must not play politics with human lives.”
Rev. Emeka argued that sovereignty should not be used as an excuse for inaction in the face of mass killings.
“America says they want to help, and we welcome it. This is not about sovereignty; it is about saving lives. Should killings continue simply because Nigeria is a sovereign country?” he queried.
He further advised the Tinubu administration to enter into diplomatic discussions with the U.S. government to tackle insecurity, insisting that the American government has both the capacity and willingness to assist if Nigeria shows genuine commitment.
“America has the apparatus and expertise to help us stop this if we engage them positively. But if we continue with propaganda and denial, more lives will be lost,” he added.
The clergyman also criticized the continued detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), urging the federal government to release him in the interest of peace and national healing.
“If Nigeria truly seeks peace, the government must act justly. You cannot label Kanu a terrorist while turning a blind eye to armed killers roaming freely in the North and South,” he said.
Speaking on the success of the Peniel 2025 Summit, themed “Greater Tomorrow,” Rev. Emeka expressed gratitude for the massive turnout of worshippers from across the country, noting that despite economic challenges, the event recorded the highest attendance since its inception.
“This year’s Peniel was exceptional. People came from Zamfara, Maiduguri, Yorubaland, and the Niger Delta despite high transport costs. It shows that Nigerians still have hope for a greater tomorrow,” he said.
Rev. Emeka concluded by calling on all Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith and continue to pray for a nation free from violence, injustice, and oppression.
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