Following its designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’, the United States has said it will work with the Federal Government to take decisive actions aimed at arresting perpetrators of religious violence, protecting Christians, and rescuing those held hostage.
The Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, Vicky Hartzler whose recommendation led President Donald Trump to blacklist Nigeria as a violator of religious freedom disclosed this while welcoming the US leader’s decision.
Hartzler, in a statement, commended Trump for taking steps to address what she described as the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
China, however, voiced strong support for Nigeria and criticised what it called foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs.
Trump had announced Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern in a post on his Truth Social platform on Friday, alleging that Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat” and claiming that thousands of Christians have been killed by radical Islamists.
He warned that the United States could take decisive measures including possible military intervention if the Bola Tinubu administration failed to act.
In its reaction, the Federal Government rejected the US claim, describing it as inconsistent with facts, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to combating violent extremism, protecting citizens, and promoting religious freedom and inclusiveness.
As part of its response to Nigeria’s alleged violations, the United States Congress is considering a bill that would impose severe sanctions on state governors, public officials, and non-state actors involved in enforcing the Sharia Penal Code.
The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Ted Cruz, has passed second reading and been referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations for further consideration.
The draft legislation, S. 2747, dated September 9, 2025, is titled ‘Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025.’ It directs the US Secretary of State to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, impose specific sanctions, and take other related measures.
The proposed legislation also targets terrorist groups and individuals implementing or supporting Islamic laws in the country.
Under the draft law, penalties would extend to judges, magistrates, prison officials, and other judicial or law enforcement officers found complicit in terrorism, corruption, or the enforcement of blasphemy laws.
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