Reps dispute U.S. Senate’s genocide accusation against Nigerian Christians

The Nigeria House of Representatives has rejected the U.S. Senate’s assertion that Nigeria’s insecurity amounts to genocide against Christians or state-sponsored persecution, arguing that this claim misrepresents the reality in the country.

This response came after a motion by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, titled “Urgent Need for a Coordinated Diplomatic and Domestic Response to the Proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025 (U.S. Senate Bill S.2747).”

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Kalu pointed out that the U.S. bill, introduced on September 9, 2025, aims to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and impose sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Act, claiming it is based on insufficient evaluations.

He emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution protects religious freedom and that the insecurity issues stem from multiple factors including insurgency, banditry, separatism, and communal conflicts rather than religion.

The lawmakers cautioned that the U.S. claims could threaten Nigeria’s sovereignty and damage diplomatic relations. Julius Ihonvbere urged for prompt diplomatic action, while Oluwole Oke criticized the allegation as a “deliberate attempt to tarnish Nigeria’s reputation.”

The House reinforced the importance of constitutional religious freedom, condemned all forms of violence, and rejected the U.S. Senate’s depiction of Nigeria’s situation.

It also instructed the Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Nigerian Embassy in Washington to file a diplomatic protest and provide accurate information to U.S. and international organizations.