A major human rights organisation in Nigeria has fired back at what it calls misleading reporting by an international newspaper.
The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) expressed deep disappointment with a recent New York Times report on attacks against Christians in Nigeria, saying the coverage contained inaccuracies and misattributions.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi, Intersociety described the article published on January 18, 2026, as “riddled with injurious falsehoods” and said it misrepresented the organisation’s positions.
Clarifying the Interview and Misattributed Statements
The dispute stems from an interview given to the New York Times’ West African Bureau Chief, Ruth Maclean, on December 16, 2025.
The discussion lasted several hours, but Intersociety insists that many of the claims reported were never made.
“Our conversation was focused entirely on documenting human rights abuses and attacks on Christians,” the statement read.
“None of our work is connected to U.S. politics or partisan issues—it is strictly about defending religious freedom, a core human right recognized globally.”
On Alleged Links to U.S. Airstrikes
Intersociety also rejected suggestions in the report that the December interview influenced U.S. airstrikes in northern Nigeria on December 25, 2025.
The group emphasised that the strikes were publicly acknowledged by both Nigerian and U.S. officials as a coordinated military operation, and the interview had no connection to them.
Defending Data Collection and Reporting Practices
The organisation strongly disputed claims that its chairman failed to verify the data used in Intersociety’s reports.
During the interview, the group said, it explained its data collection methods, which combine primary field research with secondary information from verified sources.
Intersociety noted that its researchers have been deployed across Nigeria over the years, including areas such as Southern Kaduna, Taraba, and the South-East and South-South regions.
Where direct access is not possible, the group relies on credible reports, following internationally recognised human rights monitoring standards.
Correcting Misreported Figures
The group also clarified figures reported by the New York Times.
While the article implied nearly 20,000 churches exist in Nigeria, Intersociety said its reporting only estimates that approximately 19,100 churches have been attacked or destroyed since 2009.
The organisation insisted it never suggested that this number represents the total churches in the country.
On Boko Haram Victim Statistics
Intersociety also challenged claims that the majority of Boko Haram’s victims are Muslims.
According to its research and historical data, many victims in the early years of the insurgency were Christians, including residents of northern Nigeria.
Warning Against Threats and Intimidation
In a stern message, the organisation warned that it would hold both the New York Times and its West African Bureau Chief “vicariously liable” if any harm came to its chairman, his family, or its offices in Anambra and Enugu states.
It also noted that other state and non-state actors would be held responsible in such cases.
Commitment to Human Rights Work
Despite the controversy, Intersociety affirmed its dedication to documenting human rights violations and defending religious freedom across Nigeria.
“No amount of misrepresentation or intimidation will deter us from our mission,” the statement concluded.
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