More Violence In North Nigeria

Medical personnel continue to treat dozens of people injured in a suicide bombing that killed at least 36 in Northern Nigeria on Easter Sunday. Despite increased security in place throughout the region because of ongoing extremist violence, a driver was able to detonate a car loaded with explosives outside a church in the city of Kaduna on one of its busiest streets. Later that day another bomber attacked a church in the northern city of Jos. As yet no person or group has claimed responsibility for either bombing. Later still, a large undetonated bomb was found in the city of Kano.

The United States strongly condemns the Easter attacks. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who were killed and injured. This violence has no place in a democracy. We also support the Nigerian authorities in their efforts to bring the perpetrators of these violent acts to justice, stressing the importance of respecting human rights and protecting civilians in any security operation.

Northern Nigeria has been the scene of almost daily shootings and bomb attacks in recent months targeting local authorities, police and civilians. The United States will continue to assist with investigations of these attacks and a comprehensive strategy for addressing these disturbing developments.