The Plateau State outspoken cleric, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, has revealed that some foreign countries offered him asylum after alleged threats to his life from Islamist extremists.
According to reports, Dachomo, who serves as the Regional Chairman of Church of Christ in Nations in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, said the offers came from countries including Australia and Austria, along with other parts of Europe.
Cleric: Asylum Offers Came Amid Death Threats
Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, the cleric said the offers were made at a time when he was receiving repeated death threats.
Rev. Dachomo revealed alarming reports circulating about extremists targeting him personally.
Due to his bold and unwavering stance, they had reportedly placed a substantial bounty on his head.
This threat stems directly from his outspoken criticism of relentless attacks on Christians in the state.
He has refused to stay silent, even as violence escalates against vulnerable communities.
Undeterred by the danger, Rev. Dachomo continues his advocacy, prioritizing his faith and people over personal safety.
Dachomo Rejects Asylum: “My Place Is Nigeria”
According to him, despite the danger, he refused the opportunity to relocate abroad because he believes his place is in Nigeria.
Rev. Dachomo candidly explained his firm decision to remain in Nigeria despite the risks.
Fleeing to safety abroad would force him to abandon his devoted church members, who face the same deadly threats daily.
These congregants rely on his spiritual guidance and protection amid escalating violence.
Leaving them behind feels like a profound betrayal of his calling as their shepherd.
By staying, he embodies unwavering solidarity, vowing to stand with his flock no matter the personal cost.
Cleric Stays to Support Persecuted Christians in Nigeria
The cleric said he chose to remain in the country to continue supporting Christians who he believes are facing persecution in parts of Plateau State and other areas of Nigeria.
Dachomo also said the pressure on him increased as threats became more frequent.
He noted that the warnings were not only coming from suspected extremists but also included indirect cautions that made the situation more tense.
Even with the fear surrounding the threats, he maintained that he had no plan to relocate outside the country.
He said the idea of accepting asylum never appealed to him because he believes his duty is to stand with his community.
He added that he prefers to remain with them despite the risks involved.
Rev. Dachomo openly shared the intense pressure from those nearest to him.
Loved Ones Urge Cleric to Accept Asylum Offers
Friends, family members, and fellow church leaders repeatedly urged him to accept the asylum offers from Australia and Austria.
Their pleas centered on his safety amid credible death threats from extremists.
They feared for his life, begging him to prioritize self-preservation over staying in harm’s way.
Yet, Dachomo stood resolute, valuing his duty to his persecuted community above personal escape.
However, he said he did not consider leaving because he feels responsible for those he serves.
Dachomo Vows to Stay, Support Threatened Church Members
According to him, he is determined to stay in the country and continue supporting members of his church and others who share similar concerns.
Dachomo insisted that the threats would not stop him from remaining in Nigeria.
He said he believes standing with his people is more important than seeking safety in another country.
He said: “I can’t be afraid of them. They should be afraid of me.
I’ve been offered asylum in Australia, Austria and other countries, but I said no. I am going nowhere. I stand with them.
I am not a coward and I cannot abandon my flock for the safety of another country.
Even if it costs me my life, I will remain here with my people.
I will continue to stand with persecuted Christians in Plateau and across Nigeria.”
