U.S. Congress Highlights Alleged Christian Genocide in Nigeria

Congressional Hearing Focuses on Christian Persecution

The United States House of Representatives Subcommittee held a congressional hearing to address the alleged genocide of Christians in Nigeria. The hearing emphasized the urgent need for the Nigerian government to take decisive action to stop insecurity, killings, and kidnappings targeting Christians across the country. The session also underscored the global importance of preventing genocide wherever it occurs.

During the hearing, Congressman Riley Moore met with a top Nigerian government delegation led by National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and senior security and intelligence officials to discuss the growing threats to Christian communities.

Calls for Stronger Protection and Religious Freedom

The chairman of the U.S. Congress, Representative Smith, highlighted the importance of ensuring religious freedom and protecting the lives of all citizens. He stated that the Nigerian government must prosecute those responsible for violence, including bandits who target Christians and engage in kidnapping.

Members of the U.S. State Department, Jacob McGee and Jonathan Pratt, also stressed that the Nigerian government must strengthen protections for all citizens. They pointed out that thousands of Christians have been killed in the last two years, and stronger enforcement of religious freedom is essential to securing lives and properties.

The hearing noted that in twelve Nigerian states where Islamic Sharia law is practiced, Christians and people of other faiths often face discrimination and violence, raising concerns about fair treatment and security across the country.

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Rising Violence and Humanitarian Crisis

Congressman Jacob highlighted recent incidents in Kebbi State, where more than two hundred people were killed and properties destroyed. He emphasized that the Nigerian government faces major challenges in protecting its citizens and called for urgent security interventions.

Oge Onubogu, Director and Senior Fellow of the Africa Programme, noted that insecurity in Nigeria involves more than just genocidal killings, pointing to intertwined issues that exacerbate the humanitarian crisis.

Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, who previously testified before Congress, described Nigeria as one of the deadliest places on earth for Christians. He cited intensified attacks by Fulani militants and Boko Haram, displacing millions, destroying farmland, and creating severe food insecurity. Without immediate intervention, he warned, Christianity could be at risk of being wiped out in northern and middle belt regions of Nigeria.

High-Level Meetings in Washington

Congressman Riley Moore disclosed that his meeting with Nigerian officials in Washington focused on counterterrorism, security assistance, and the protection of vulnerable communities. Nigerian delegates included Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi, Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Defence Intelligence Lt. Gen. E. Undiendeye.

Riley emphasized the need for tangible actions to ensure that Christians are not subjected to violence, persecution, displacement, or death because of their faith. He stated that the United States is ready to work with Nigeria to combat terrorism perpetrated by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and Fulani militants.

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Urgent Need for Action and Cooperation

The hearing underscored that religious violence cannot continue unchecked. Congressman Riley urged the Nigerian government to seize the opportunity to strengthen cooperation with the United States in addressing terrorism and protecting citizens. He noted that President Trump and Congress are united in their resolve to end violence against Christians and to disrupt terrorist groups in Nigeria.

Nigerian officials acknowledged the challenges they face in securing the nation, including protecting civilians, countering terrorism, and coordinating with international partners. Riley stated that the United States will monitor developments closely and expects Nigeria to accept assistance and collaborate on ending the ongoing bloodshed.

Conclusion

The congressional hearing highlighted the severity of the Christian genocide crisis in Nigeria and the urgent need for coordinated action. It reinforced the importance of protecting religious freedom, securing lives and properties, and addressing the humanitarian and security challenges facing the nation. Through dialogue, cooperation, and international support, the United States and Nigeria aim to work together to stop violence, hold perpetrators accountable, and restore safety for vulnerable communities.

 

 

 

 

Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi

Image Credit: Thevangaurdnews.com