By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Rev. Kallamu Musa Ali Dikwa, a Christian rights activist and Director-General of the Centre for Justice on Religious and Ethnic Matters in Nigeria, has raised alarm over alleged threats to his life stemming from his activism against corruption and injustice in Borno State.
In a statement released ahead of Christmas Eve, Rev. Dikwa lamented facing “imminent danger” due to his outspokenness. “I am facing imminent danger due to my fight against corruption and injustice in Borno State, Nigeria,” he stated.
According to Rev. Dikwa, the threats originate not only from Muslim extremists and corrupt politicians but also from certain Christian leaders. “Unfortunately, the threats to my life come not only from Muslim extremists and corrupt politicians but also from some Christian leaders,” he said.
He revealed that on December 3, 2024, he was arrested by Nigerian police officers in what he described as a plot orchestrated by Pastor Samaila of the Pentecostal Ministry of Prayer in Maiduguri. He was detained for two weeks at the Federal Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja.
Rev. Dikwa also accused the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) leadership in Borno State of making false accusations against him. “The CAN leadership in Borno State has falsely testified against me, claiming that I insult Muslims and Islam during my sermons. They also alleged that I am sponsored by opposition politicians, which has been proven to be false,” he said.
The activist has been vocal about injustices faced by Christians in Borno State, including the abduction and forced marriage of underage Christian girls by Muslim politicians and traditional rulers, as well as the demolition of churches.
He accused the CAN leadership of colluding with corrupt politicians instead of defending Christian interests. “The CAN leadership in Borno State has compromised with corrupt politicians and has failed to protect the interests of Christians in the state. Instead, they have resorted to intimidation, harassment, and conspiracy to murder,” he alleged.
Rev. Dikwa identified Pastor Samaila, the CAN leadership in Borno State, and corrupt politicians as those responsible for the threats against him.
Despite the dangers, he expressed faith in divine protection. “I am not afraid, as I know that God is my protector. I will continue to expose the evil plans and corruption that threaten the lives and livelihoods of Christians in Borno State,” he declared.
He called on the international community to intervene. “To the international community, I appeal for your intervention and support in protecting my life and the lives of other Christians facing persecution in Nigeria,” he stated.
