MPs Ask Starmer to Press Tinubu on Christian Killings During UK Visit

A group of British lawmakers has urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to raise concerns about the killing of Christians in Nigeria when he meets with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the Nigerian leader’s upcoming visit to the UK.

Tinubu and Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu are expected to attend a state banquet hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.

The Nigerian president will then meet Starmer at 10 Downing Street on Thursday, marking the first state visit by a Nigerian president to the UK in nearly four decades.

Members of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Freedom of Religion or Belief have written to Development Minister Jenny Chapman, asking the British government to address concerns about religious freedom and human rights in Nigeria.

The lawmakers cited continued attacks against Christian communities, noting the activities of extremist groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province.

According to the group, 163 Christian worshippers were kidnapped earlier this year in Kaduna State amid a surge in abductions targeting religious groups.

Chairman of the parliamentary group, Jim Shannon, said Nigeria must “take concrete steps to prevent the harassment, persecution and killing of Christians, while ensuring that perpetrators are investigated and prosecuted.”

The lawmakers also called for updates on the case of Leah Sharibu, who remains in captivity after refusing to renounce her Christian faith.

In addition, the group urged Starmer to ensure that human rights considerations are included in future diplomatic, security and trade engagements between the UK and Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Sarah Mullally is expected to host Mrs Tinubu at Lambeth Palace, where the Nigerian First Lady will attend a prayer service and preach.

Mrs Tinubu will also meet representatives from the Church of England and charities including Christian Aid during a reception at the palace.

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