Germany Raises Concern Over Blasphemy Laws in Northern Nigeria

Germany has expressed concern over how blasphemy laws are being applied in parts of northern Nigeria, warning that their selective enforcement could lead to serious human rights violations and threaten freedom of religion.

Thomas Rachel, Germany’s Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, made the remarks in Abuja after meetings with government officials, religious leaders, and victims of violence. He said reports from some northern states suggest the laws are being used in ways that conflict with Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

During his visit, Rachel also traveled to Makurdi in Benue State, where he met internally displaced persons and visited Yelawata, a community affected by a deadly attack in June 2025. He said conversations with victims reflected uncertainty about their future and the impact of ongoing insecurity.

Rachel noted that both Christians and Muslims have been affected by extremist violence, including attacks by groups such as Boko Haram and ISIL affiliates, emphasizing Germany’s solidarity with Nigeria.

He added that Germany is supporting peacebuilding efforts through dialogue and mediation initiatives in collaboration with international partners, aimed at bringing conflicting groups together.

While acknowledging Nigeria’s strong religious diversity, Rachel stressed that improving security remains critical and called for unity across faiths, saying lasting peace can only be achieved through cooperation regardless of religious differences.