Sardar Mushtaq Gill Urges the United Nations Human Rights Council to Take Action Over Reported Violence and Persecution Affecting Christians in Nigeria

Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan — Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Founder of LEAD Ministries, has urged the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) to take immediate and decisive action in response to reports of violence and persecution affecting Christian communities in Nigeria. He called for greater international attention, accountability for those responsible for attacks, and stronger measures to protect vulnerable communities facing religiously motivated violence.

Human rights advocates and organizations campaigning against the persecution of Christians have raised concerns over continuing attacks, killings, and abductions affecting Christian communities and other civilians in Nigeria. Reported incidents have included attacks on churches, the killing of religious leaders, and the abduction of worshippers and children by armed groups, prompting renewed calls for stronger international action to protect vulnerable communities and uphold freedom of religion or belief.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill expressed deep concern over the ongoing insecurity and said that repeated attacks against Christian communities represent a serious human rights challenge affecting the fundamental rights to life, security, and freedom of religion or belief.

"The international community must not ignore the suffering of innocent civilians who are targeted because of their faith," Gill said. "Every person has the right to worship freely and live without fear of violence or persecution. Those responsible for attacks against civilians must be held accountable."

Gill urged the United Nations Human Rights Council to give urgent attention to reported violations of religious freedom, encourage effective protection measures for vulnerable communities, support impartial investigations, and promote accountability for those responsible for acts of violence.

He also called on governments, international institutions, and humanitarian organizations to assist victims and affected families while strengthening efforts to protect religious minorities and uphold internationally recognized human rights.

Pastor Imran Amanat, Head of LEAD Ministries, also condemned the continuing violence affecting Christians in Nigeria and called for increased international awareness. He said that repeated attacks on Christian communities, churches, and worshippers represent what he described as "a genocide against Christians in Nigeria" and attributed the violence to terrorist organizations, including ISIS-linked groups and other Islamist extremist groups operating in the region.

"The systematic targeting of Christian communities because of their faith is a serious human rights concern that requires urgent global attention," Pastor Amanat said. "The world cannot remain silent while innocent families suffer from fear, displacement, and violence. We call upon the international community to take meaningful action to protect vulnerable communities and ensure that those responsible for atrocities are held accountable."

Sardar Mushtaq Gill further called for stronger international monitoring of violations of freedom of religion or belief, increased humanitarian assistance for victims of violence, and coordinated global efforts to confront terrorism while protecting fundamental human rights. He urged churches, human rights defenders, religious leaders, and concerned citizens around the world to advocate for greater international action on behalf of persecuted Christians.

Pastor Imran Amanat, Head of LEAD Ministries, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advocating for persecuted Christians and other victims of religious violence. He urged governments, international institutions, and civil society organizations to work together to defend human dignity, promote accountability, and protect the right of all people to practice their faith freely and safely.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill Welcomes EU Human Rights Report on Pakistan, Urges Clear Recognition of Christians’ Suffering from Blasphemy Laws, Forced Labour, and Religious Discrimination

LAHORE, Pakistan – July 17, 2026: Sardar Mushtaq Gill, founder of LEAD Ministries, has welcomed the European Commission Staff Working Document – Joint Report to the European Parliament and the Council (Brussels, 16 July 2026, SWD(2026) 184 final) for highlighting serious human rights concerns in Pakistan, including the misuse of blasphemy laws, forced and bonded labour, religious discrimination, hate speech, and violence against vulnerable communities.

Gill expressed appreciation to the European Union for continuing to monitor Pakistan’s human rights commitments and for raising concerns regarding violations affecting freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expression, and the protection of minority communities.

“The European Union deserves appreciation for highlighting important human rights concerns in Pakistan, particularly the misuse of blasphemy laws, the persistence of forced and bonded labour, discrimination against religious minorities, and the lack of accountability for those responsible for violence and intimidation,” Gill said.

While welcoming the findings of the report, Gill respectfully urged the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union to ensure that the suffering of Christians in Pakistan is highlighted clearly, directly, and specifically in future human rights assessments.

Gill said that although the report recognizes that Pakistan’s blasphemy laws disproportionately affect individuals belonging to minority religions and faith communities, the particular experiences of Christians require greater attention.

“Christians are among the main victims of the misuse of blasphemy laws in Pakistan,” Gill said. “When an individual Christian is accused, falsely implicated, or booked under these laws, the consequences often extend beyond that person and affect the entire Christian community.”

He explained that accusations against an individual Christian frequently create fear among surrounding Christian residents, forcing families to leave their homes to protect their lives and safety. The collective impact of such incidents demonstrates why international human rights reports should examine not only individual cases but also the wider consequences for Christian communities.

Gill said that Christian communities often face threats, intimidation, social pressure, displacement, and attacks on homes and churches following blasphemy allegations, even before judicial proceedings establish the facts of a case.

He referred to the recent incident in Karachi’s Baldia Town as an example of how allegations involving a single Christian can rapidly result in intimidation, threats, and harassment against the wider Christian community. He said that the timely intervention of law enforcement, including Rangers, helped prevent the situation from escalating further.

Gill stated that a large number of Christian residents were surrounded by an emotionally charged mob, creating fears that the community could have faced a situation similar to the violence experienced by the Christian community in Jaranwala in August 2023, where churches and Christian homes were attacked and damaged following blasphemy allegations.

He stressed that such incidents demonstrate the urgent need for stronger preventive measures, effective protection of vulnerable communities, and accountability for those who incite or participate in violence.

Concerns Over Blasphemy Laws and False Accusations

Gill welcomed the European Commission’s concerns regarding Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, which continue to have a negative impact on freedom of expression and disproportionately affect religious minorities.

The report notes that Pakistani authorities have referred to existing legal safeguards, judicial oversight, and provincial Standard Operating Procedures as mechanisms to prevent misuse of blasphemy laws. However, the report observes that these measures have proven ineffective in preventing continued reports of procedural delays, intimidation, and extrajudicial violence connected to blasphemy cases.

The report also highlights that there has been no prosecution of individuals responsible for false accusations of blasphemy. It further documents the misuse of these laws for personal gain, including the exposure of a so-called “blasphemy business group” that allegedly entrapped more than 800 people, mainly young men, through online scams. Hundreds of victims reportedly remained imprisoned despite allegations being questioned.

Gill said that the continued misuse of blasphemy laws creates a climate of fear among Christians and other vulnerable religious communities and requires stronger safeguards to protect innocent people from false accusations and mob violence.

Christians and Vulnerability to Forced and Bonded Labour

Gill also welcomed the report’s recognition that forced and bonded labour remain grave human rights concerns in Pakistan. However, he urged the European Union to more explicitly acknowledge that Christians are among the communities most vulnerable to debt bondage and labour exploitation because of their socio-economic marginalization, poverty, and religious identity.

He noted that many Christians continue to work in brick kilns, agriculture, sanitation services, domestic work, and other low-paid occupations where exploitation remains widespread.

“Economic vulnerability and social discrimination place many Christians at increased risk of exploitation,” Gill said. “Their suffering in situations of bonded and forced labour should receive greater attention in international human rights reporting.”

The European Commission’s report states that forced labour remains a serious problem in Pakistan despite legislation prohibiting the practice. It highlights that millions of people continue to face debt bondage, particularly in agricultural areas of Sindh and brick kilns in Punjab. The report also points to limited enforcement, inadequate data collection, and the need for stronger implementation of measures to eliminate bonded labour.

Gill urged international organizations to consider the connection between poverty, social exclusion, and religious identity when assessing the vulnerability of communities affected by labour exploitation.

Religious Intolerance and Protection of Christian Communities

Gill further called on international human rights organizations to clearly document the religious intolerance faced by Christians in Pakistan.

He said Christians are a peaceful community that respects other religions, including Islam, and does not promote hatred against other faiths. However, he expressed concern that Christian beliefs, the Holy Bible, and fundamental teachings of Christianity are frequently subjected to hostility, insults, and hate speech by extremist elements.

He urged authorities to ensure equal protection for all religious communities and to take effective action against hate speech, incitement, and violence.

“The suffering of Christians should not remain hidden under general references to minorities,” Gill said. “Their specific experiences of collective punishment, attacks on places of worship, discrimination, and economic exploitation require clear recognition.”

Appeal for Stronger International Attention

Gill acknowledged that the European Commission’s report also highlights discrimination and violence affecting other vulnerable communities, including Ahmadi Muslims and other minorities. He emphasized that all victims of religious persecution deserve equal protection, justice, and dignity.

Concluding his appeal, Gill urged the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, the European Commission, the United Nations, and international human rights organizations to continue monitoring Pakistan’s human rights situation and to ensure that future reports explicitly address the challenges faced by Christians.

He said that direct recognition of Christian suffering would provide a more accurate understanding of Pakistan’s human rights situation and encourage stronger international efforts to protect freedom of religion or belief, prevent violence, and ensure accountability.

“Clear recognition of the suffering of Christians and other vulnerable communities is essential for promoting human dignity, justice, and equal protection for all citizens of Pakistan,” Gill said.

Global Persecution of Christians Continues as Sardar Mushtaq Gill Calls for Prayer, Advocacy, and Support for Vulnerable Believers

Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan — Across the world, millions of Christians continue to face persecution, discrimination, violence, and restrictions on religious freedom because of their faith. From attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria to restrictions affecting churches in China, and from conflict-driven suffering in Sudan to legal and social challenges faced by believers in Pakistan and India, the situation of persecuted Christians remains a serious concern.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Founder of LEAD Ministries, a human rights lawyer, and an advocate for religious freedom, has called upon the global Church to remember suffering believers through prayer, advocacy, and practical support.

Gill said that the persecution of Christians is a global issue that requires the attention of churches, human rights organizations, and governments committed to protecting freedom of religion or belief.

"The suffering of persecuted Christians should never be ignored. When believers face injustice because of their faith, the global Church has a responsibility to stand with them through prayer, compassion, and action," Gill said.

International religious freedom organizations continue to document serious challenges affecting Christian communities in several countries, including Nigeria, China, India, Sudan, and Pakistan. These challenges include violence, discrimination, restrictions on worship, attacks on churches, displacement, misuse of laws, and social hostility.

Nigeria: Christian Communities Facing Violence and Displacement

Nigeria remains one of the countries where many Christian communities continue to face severe insecurity. Attacks by extremist groups and armed militants have resulted in killings, kidnappings, destruction of homes and churches, and the displacement of families.

In several regions, Christian villages have experienced repeated attacks, leaving communities fearful for their safety and future. International observers have called for stronger protection of civilians and accountability for those responsible for violence.

Gill expressed solidarity with Nigerian Christians who continue to worship and serve despite dangerous circumstances.

"Many believers in Nigeria are paying a heavy price because of their faith. Their courage reminds the global Church that we must pray, support, and stand with those who suffer," he said.

China: Christians Continue to Face Restrictions

In China, Christian communities continue to experience challenges related to government regulation of religious activities. Reports from religious freedom organizations have raised concerns regarding surveillance, restrictions on some churches, and pressure on Christian leaders and congregations outside officially recognized religious structures.

Gill encouraged Christians worldwide to pray for pastors, ministry workers, and believers in China who seek to maintain their faith despite difficulties.

"The Church in China needs our prayers and encouragement. God sees the faithfulness of believers who continue to follow Christ in challenging environments," Gill said.

India: Concerns Over Religious Freedom and Minority Rights

India remains a country of concern for Christian communities and religious freedom advocates. Reports have highlighted incidents involving attacks on churches, harassment of pastors, intimidation of believers, and concerns regarding the implementation of anti-conversion laws in some states.

Gill emphasized that religious freedom is a fundamental human right that should be protected for every person, regardless of religion.

"Peaceful societies are built when every citizen is treated with dignity and has the freedom to practice their faith without fear," he said.

Sudan: Christians Amid Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

Sudan's ongoing armed conflict has created one of the world's most serious humanitarian crises. Christian communities, along with many other civilians, have suffered from displacement, insecurity, and the destruction of normal life.

Churches and humanitarian organizations have continued to call for prayer and assistance for families affected by the conflict.

Gill urged Christians around the world to remember Sudan in prayer and to support efforts that bring peace, relief, and hope to suffering communities.

Pakistan: Protecting Vulnerable Christian Communities

In Pakistan, Christians continue to face serious challenges, including discrimination, misuse of blasphemy laws, mob violence, forced displacement following allegations of blasphemy, and unequal access to justice.

As a Christian leader and human rights advocate, Sardar Mushtaq Gill has repeatedly highlighted the need for stronger protection of religious minorities and equal rights for all citizens.

Through LEAD Ministries, under the leadership of Founder Sardar Mushtaq Gill and Head of LEAD Ministries Pastor Imran Amanat, the ministry continues its commitment to advocating for persecuted Christians, defending human rights, documenting cases of injustice, and supporting vulnerable Christian communities.

Through legal advocacy, awareness initiatives, and human rights efforts, LEAD Ministries works to raise the voices of those facing discrimination, persecution, and violations of their fundamental freedoms.

Protecting Christian Faith, Identity, and Human Dignity

Sardar Mushtaq Gill emphasized that persecution against Christians is not limited only to physical violence or legal difficulties. In many regions, Christian beliefs, religious identity, and values also face hostility, intimidation, and targeted harassment by extremist elements and individuals who promote religious intolerance.

He said that attacks against Christian communities often affect not only their security but also their ability to openly express their faith, preserve their traditions, and participate equally in society.

"Christians should not be forced to hide their faith or live in fear because of their beliefs. Every person and every community has the right to practice their religion peacefully and live with dignity," Gill said.

He stressed that defending persecuted Christians is not a call against any religion or community, but a stand against hatred, extremism, discrimination, and injustice.

"The protection of religious freedom benefits everyone. When one community suffers because of intolerance, the whole society is affected," Gill added.

A Call to the Global Church

Sardar Mushtaq Gill has appealed to churches, pastors, ministries, and believers worldwide to remember persecuted Christians in prayer and action.

He encouraged Christians to pray for:

● Believers imprisoned because of their faith.

●Families affected by violence, displacement, and injustice.

●Pastors and church leaders serving in difficult environments.

● Victims seeking legal protection and justice.

●Christians who have become refugees and asylum seekers because of persecution, conflict, or threats to their safety.

●Vulnerable Christian communities in Pakistan and around the world.

Gill said prayer must be accompanied by practical support through humanitarian assistance, legal advocacy, education, and empowerment programs.

"The persecuted Church does not only need our sympathy; it needs our commitment. We are called to stand with our brothers and sisters through faith, love, and action," he said.

Despite continuing challenges, Gill expressed hope that the Church will remain strong and united.

"History has shown that persecution cannot destroy genuine faith. The global Church must continue to shine with compassion, courage, and hope," he said.

About LEAD Ministries

LEAD Ministries is a Christian human rights and advocacy organization working to support vulnerable communities, promote religious freedom, defend human dignity, and provide assistance to those facing injustice.

Sardar Mushtaq Gill is the Founder of LEAD Ministries, a human rights lawyer, and an advocate for religious freedom. Pastor Imran Amanat serves as the Head of LEAD Ministries, working alongside ministry leaders and the team to strengthen Christian communities and promote justice, peace, and hope.

"Remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering." — Hebrews 13:3