The European Parliament has called on the Nigerian government to take urgent and decisive action to address the country’s worsening insecurity, particularly in the Middle Belt, following renewed attacks on Christian communities.

The call came after 501 members of the European Parliament voted in favour of a resolution condemning the killings and urging Nigerian authorities to strengthen security, protect vulnerable communities and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. Only one lawmaker voted against the resolution, while 86 abstained.

Lawmakers expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in parts of Nigeria, especially Plateau State, where several communities have suffered repeated attacks in recent months.

The resolution highlighted the June 22 attack on Kawel village in Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State, where more than 20 Christians, including a pastor, were reportedly killed during a night raid by armed attackers.

The European Parliament urged Nigerian authorities to intensify operations against terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). It also called for independent investigations into violent attacks and stressed the need to end impunity by ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.

In addition, the lawmakers urged the Federal Government to strengthen civilian protection, improve early warning systems and invest in conflict prevention measures across affected communities.

Speaking during the debate, Slovak lawmaker Miriam Lexmann described the killings in Kawel as another tragic example of the violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria.

She said the attack, which claimed the lives of innocent Christians, including their pastor, underscored the escalating violence against Christians in parts of the country, adding that Nigeria has become one of the world’s most dangerous places for Christians.