More than 500 members of the European Parliament have called on the Nigerian government to take stronger action against violence in the Middle Belt, urging authorities to end what they described as a culture of impunity.
A total of 501 lawmakers voted in support of a resolution that condemned the continuing attacks in the region and called for greater protection of civilians.
Only one lawmaker voted against the measure, while 86 abstained.
The vote marked a sharp change from 2022, when the Parliament declined to debate the killing of Christian student Deborah Yakubu in Sokoto.
According to the resolution, the lawmakers urged the federal government to "stop the cycle of impunity" by ensuring that those responsible for killings and other violent attacks are identified, prosecuted and punished.
They also called on Nigerian authorities to strengthen security in affected communities, improve support for victims and displaced persons, and protect the rights of all citizens regardless of their religion or ethnic background.
The lawmakers expressed concern over the worsening security situation in the Middle Belt, where repeated attacks have claimed hundreds of lives and forced many families to flee their homes.
They said lasting peace would require justice, accountability and better protection for vulnerable communities.
The resolution further urged the Nigerian government to carry out independent investigations into reported attacks and ensure that security agencies respond quickly and fairly to threats against civilians.
Although resolutions passed by the European Parliament are not legally binding on Nigeria, they reflect the position of the European Union's elected lawmakers and can influence the bloc's diplomatic engagement with Nigeria.
The latest resolution comes as insecurity remains one of Nigeria's biggest challenges, with renewed calls from local and international groups for stronger action to protect lives and restore peace in violence-hit communities.
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