U.S. Congress Raises Alarm Over Alleged Christian Genocide in Nigeria
A U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee hearing has spotlighted claims of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria, urging the Nigerian government to take stronger action to curb the violence.
Key Points from the Hearing
The session, held by the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, focused on Nigeria’s growing security crisis, including frequent killings and kidnappings.
Rep. Chris Smith emphasized the Nigerian government’s duty to safeguard all citizens and called for the prosecution of bandit groups accused of targeting Christians.
U.S. State Department officials, including Jacob McGee and Jonathan Pratt—said thousands of Christians have been killed in the past two years.
They also highlighted concerns about religious freedom in Nigerian states that implement Sharia law, suggesting potential discrimination against non-Muslims.
Voices from Expert Witnesses
Oge Onubogu, a senior fellow at the Africa Programme, stressed that Nigeria’s insecurity should not be reduced to “genocidal killings,” noting that multiple factors contribute to the situation.
Bishop Wilfred Anagbe described Northern and Middle Belt Nigeria as dangerously unstable for Christians. He warned that Christian communities face “intense” attacks from Boko Haram and Fulani militants, with little accountability for perpetrators.
According to Anagbe, the violence has forced mass displacement, destroyed farmland, worsened food insecurity, and could threaten the survival of Christianity in those regions.
Diplomatic Engagement: U.S. and Nigerian Leaders Meet
Following the hearing, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore met with a high-level Nigerian delegation in Washington. The Nigerian side was led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and included key security, intelligence, and legal officials.
In the meeting, Moore said he made clear to Nigerian officials that Christians should not be subject to violence or persecution because of their faith.
He offered U.S. support to help Nigeria combat terrorism, particularly from Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militant groups.
Moore urged Nigeria to cooperate closely with the U.S., calling for a “decisive” partnership to protect vulnerable Christian communities and to strengthen religious freedom in the country.