EU wants perpetrators of violence in Nigeria punished

Brussels, Belgium (PANA) - The European Union (EU) has said it is ''horrified" by the recent attacks against churches in Nigeria and called on the country's authorities to punish the perpetrators of the heinous acts.

In a statement issued Wednesday in Brussels, the EU High Representative for Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), Ms. Catherine Ashton, condemned the attacks and deplored the reprisals by Christians which resulted in about 50 deaths with 150 injured.

According to Ms. Ashton, it is important that those responsible for the terrible loss of lives are brought to justice.

She recalled that the Nigerian Constitution enshrined the freedom of belief and religion.

Ms. Ashton announced that the EU would explore ways to support efforts by the Nigerian government to ensure better relations among adherents of the various religions.

She also said the EU plans to cooperate with the West African country’s authorities to strengthen the effectiveness of the fight against terrorism.

The Islamic sect Boko Haram has claimed responsibility for Sunday's attack on three churches in the northern state of Kaduna, which triggered reprisal attacks by Christians in the state.
-0- PANA AK/JSG/JEN/SEG 20June2012