By Gabriel Udeh, Kaduna
Kallamu Musa Ali Dikwa, a pastor and activist from Borno State, has alleged ongoing marginalisation of Christian communities in parts of the state affected by insurgency.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Dikwa claimed that communities in Askira-Uba, Chibok, Gwoza, and Hawul local government areas had been severely impacted by activities linked to insurgent groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province. He also alleged incidents of forced religious conversion and underage marriages involving Christian girls, though he did not provide documentary evidence to support the claims.
Dikwa further referenced the case of a former government house photographer, Joseph Markus Sawa, alleging that he converted from Christianity to Islam in pursuit of a political opportunity. The claims have not been independently verified.
The activist criticised some Christian leaders and organisations in the state, alleging that they were not doing enough to defend the interests of affected communities. He also raised concerns about the role of religious and political leaders in managing interfaith relations in the state.
As of the time of filing this report, the Borno State Government and officials mentioned in the statement, including Babagana Umara Zulum and Kashim Shettima, had not publicly responded to the allegations.
