The US House of Representatives has recommended that Nigerian officials linked to the crisis in the North have their assets seized. The sponsors of the measure decried the alleged worsening persecution of Christians and other religious minorities in Nigeria.
According to reports, the resolution cites findings and reports, including media accounts and NGO data, alleging large-scale attacks on civilians, destruction of places of worship, and a pattern of impunity. The resolution highlights that Islamic terror organizations have carried out mass murder, rape, kidnappings, and other atrocities targeting mostly Nigerian Christians and non-Fulani moderate Muslim populations.
The resolution also notes that prominent Christian and Muslim leaders have been kidnapped or assassinated, including priests, pastors, and imams who advocate for religious tolerance. Supporters of the measure argue that the Country of Particular Concern (CPC) redesignation would strengthen diplomatic leverage to press Nigeria for accountability and protection of religious minorities.
The resolution recommends conditioning US foreign assistance on demonstrable steps by Nigeria to prevent persecution, prosecute alleged perpetrators, and care for displaced populations. It also suggests imposing targeted sanctions, including visa bans and asset freezes, on individuals and entities responsible for severe violations of religious freedom in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government has responded, stating that the US designation is based on a wrong perception of the country’s security challenges. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized that terrorism and violent crimes in Nigeria do not target any particular religious group.
The US has previously designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern for religious persecution, and this resolution marks a clear congressional signal backing the decision. If advanced, it could lead to further legislative or executive actions.
The situation in Nigeria remains complex, with various factors contributing to the violence. Experts say that addressing the root causes of the conflict, including poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education and economic opportunities, is crucial to achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
