Christian Youth Leader Condemns Online Attacks on Faith and Clerics
Group, under the aegis of Concerned Christian Youths has expressed deep outrage over the recent surge of online attacks targeting the Christian faith and its clerics in Nigeria.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, leader of the group, Adama Paul James, condemned the disparaging statements, libelous claims, and malicious attacks spread through social media platforms and blogs.
He specifically mentioned Abraham Daniel, a self-proclaimed humanist, who has repeatedly insulted men of God, made defamatory statements about the Church, and described Christianity as a scam. James emphasized that such actions are not only reckless but also capable of inciting religious tensions in an already fragile nation.
The blatant abuse of social media, according to James, poses a grave threat to religious harmony and national peace. He stressed that the Nigerian Constitution and international human rights standards guarantee freedom of religion and belief, and that the targeted attacks on Christianity and its clerics constitute a gross violation of these provisions.
As a member of a Christian community, James expressed personal concern and targeting by these actions and rhetoric. He is deeply concerned for the future of the faith and the spiritual upbringing of his children and successive generations.
James called on authorities to spare no effort in identifying and prosecuting those who misuse social media to incite religious tension and propagate lies. He clarified that this is not a battle against free speech but against the abuse of free speech to promote hatred, falsehood, and religious intolerance.
The statement specifically mentioned churches like the Catholic Church, Redeemed Christian Church of God, and their leaders, who have been targeted by false and harmful information disseminated through online streaming platforms. James deemed this totally unacceptable and vowed not to tolerate it.
“I will not rest until justice is served and peace is preserved,” James said. “Their actions thus far constitute cyberbullying and are directed at the Church and revered men of God.”
He urged all relevant authorities to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.