Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 May 2018, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 May 2018 (named day). It was answered by Harriett Baldwin (Conservative) on Monday, 14 May 2018 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Nigeria: Religious Freedom

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, whether he has made representations to the Government of Nigeria on the weaponry reported to have been used by armed Fulani herders in northern Nigeria in attacks on predominately Christian farming communities; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: We are aware that rural inter-communal clashes have led to violent deaths by groups with increasing access to sophisticated equipment. We continue to encourage the Government of Nigeria to work with security agencies in a compliant manner to resolve the ongoing issue and welcome President Buhari's condemnation of these acts of violence. We are engaging with Federal and State Government to express concern and encourage them to work with all parties to develop solutions that meet the needs of all affected communities to prevent further violence.

Secondary information