Rioters in Niger
have destroyed at least 45 churches in protest at the French satirical
magazine Charlie
Hebdo’sdepiction of Islam’s prophet Mohammed.
Estimates vary but some sources suggest the number of churches burned
down at the weekend could be more than 70. Numerous Christian homes, schools and
organisations, including a church-run orphanage, were also reportedly
destroyed.
At least ten people were killed in rioting which spread to towns across
Niger, although it was focused around the capital Niamey and the southern city
of Zinder. Similar protests have been held in several other nations including
Algeria, Senegal, Pakistan, Somalia and Sudan.
Many in Niger’s small Christian community have fled their homes and are
said to be very fearful. Broadcasts of extremist sermons promoting jihad against
Christians are regularly played over the loudspeakers of mosques in Niger. The
nation is the birthplace of Boko
Haram leader Abubakar
Shekau.
Release Int.
