A prominent Plateau State cleric, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, has disclosed that he rejected several asylum offers from foreign countries despite alleged threats to his life from extremist groups.
The outspoken religious leader currently serves as the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, Dachomo revealed that countries including Australia, Austria, and several other European nations had offered him refuge during a period when he reportedly faced serious security threats. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
However, the cleric said he turned down the offers, insisting that his mission is to remain in Nigeria and continue advocating for Christians who are facing persecution in Plateau State and other parts of the country.
According to Dachomo, the asylum invitations came at a time when he was allegedly receiving frequent death threats from extremist elements, along with warnings he described as coming from high-level authorities.
Despite the risks, he said leaving the country was never an option.
“I cannot be afraid of them. If anything, they should be afraid of me,” Dachomo said.
“I have been offered asylum in Australia, Austria and other countries, but I rejected it. I am not leaving. I will remain here with my people.”
The clergyman explained that his decision was driven by his commitment to defend Christians who he says continue to suffer attacks from terrorists and armed bandits in parts of the country.
He added that although some of his friends, relatives and fellow religious leaders encouraged him to accept the asylum offers for his safety, he believes abandoning the community he leads would be a betrayal of his calling.
Dachomo maintained that his priority is to continue speaking out and standing with those affected by violence and insecurity.
The issue of insecurity and attacks on communities in parts of northern and central Nigeria has remained a major national concern in recent years.
Religious leaders, community groups and human rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger government action to address violence linked to armed banditry and extremist groups.
For Rev. Dachomo, however, leaving Nigeria is not an option.
“I will stay and stand with my people,” he reiterated.