By: Sunday Ameh
A group of 31 members of the United States Congress has thrown their weight behind President Donald Trump’s decision to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), citing what they described as the “ongoing persecution and mass killings of Christians” in Africa’s most populous nation.
In a statement issued by Rep. Robert Aderholt, Chairman of the House Values Action Team, the lawmakers commended Trump for taking what they called “a bold and compassionate stand” against religious violence in Nigeria.
“President Trump’s commitment to end the Christian genocide in Nigeria and his designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern gives hope to the people of Nigeria. This persecution of Christians must end,” Aderholt said.
He accused terrorist groups in Nigeria of killing thousands of believers annually and urged Washington to take the lead in confronting the violence and protecting religious minorities.
Supporting the move, Rep. Chris Smith, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, said the designation was “a powerful step toward holding the Nigerian government accountable for complicity in the unchecked murder, rape, and torture of Christians.”
Other lawmakers, including House Majority Whip Tom Emmer, praised Trump’s action as “courageous and long overdue.” He stated, “God bless President Trump for standing up and protecting Christians around the globe. The United States finally has a leader unafraid to do what’s right.”
Lawmakers such as Lisa McClain, Josh Brecheen, Mary Miller, and Mark Alford also echoed calls for stiffer sanctions and diplomatic pressure on Nigerian officials accused of turning a blind eye to religious killings.
Trump had earlier announced on his Truth Social platform that the U.S. would “not stand by while Christians are being slaughtered” in Nigeria, warning that Washington could cut aid or even take military action if the attacks continue.
“The United States cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening in Nigeria and other countries. We are able and willing to defend Christians. The killing of Christians — it is not going to happen,” Trump said.
The Nigerian government, however, has rejected the characterization, maintaining that the violence in the country is not religiously motivated but part of broader security challenges affecting all citizens. Officials insist that Nigeria’s constitution protects freedom of religion and that all faiths are treated equally under the law.
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