Christian Solidarity International (CSI), Switzerland, has joined more than a dozen concerned groups and individuals in signing a letter to United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressing dismay over the removal of Nigeria from the watch list of countries of particular concern (CPC) in matters of religious freedom.

In the letter dated 17 December, 2021 the individuals and groups, all of which are involved in supporting Nigerian Christians who are persecuted for their faith, warn that “Nigeria is in the throes of systemic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious and other freedoms” and the situation is spiralling out of control.

“By its dereliction of the duties to prevent, protect and punish, Nigeria has fuelled religious violence and stoked the culture of impunity,” they write.

“We are therefore appalled and baffled that just one year after being listed as a CPC, the U.S. Department of State has removed Nigeria’s designation,” they continue.

“In the light of the above, we urge you to reconsider your decision and take up the matter of religious persecution in Nigeria with the seriousness that it deserves.”