US lawmaker urges Tinubu to act on religious persecution allegations
US lawmaker urges Tinubu to act on religious persecution allegations
A United States Congressman, Bill Huizenga, has urged President Bola Tinubu to take urgent action over allegations of attacks on Christians in Nigeria, warning that failure to act could have severe consequences for the country.
In an interview with Arise News in Washington, D.C, released on Tuesday, Huizenga called on the Nigerian government to address reports of religious persecution without delay.
Huizenga cautioned that Nigeria risks repeating tragedies similar to those witnessed in Rwanda and South Sudan if decisive steps are not taken.
The lawmaker stated that he supports President Donald Trump’s move to redesignate Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern.’
“We were too late on Rwanda, we were too late on South Sudan. Let’s not be too late again on this one,” he said.
Huizenga stressed that he had personally spoken with religious leaders and villagers who described being attacked in their homes and “feeling very much targeted.”
Responding to Trump’s claim that Christianity in Nigeria faces an existential threat, Huizenga clarified that he does not foresee a military strike.
He said, “I don’t envision a surprise attack or military response. Economic pressure and sanctions on individuals and organisations would be more effective.
“Sanctions can cut off the flow of money and travel. We don’t know who is financing these operations, but targeted economic measures will have a positive impact.”
The Congressman criticised the Nigerian government’s response to the violence as inadequate and dismissive.
“They need to show what they are doing to protect not just Christians but all citizens. Their response has largely been, ‘there’s really not a problem.’ Well, I think there is,” he said.
Huizenga warned that the ongoing insecurity is also undermining Nigeria’s economic growth and deterring foreign investment.
“When you cannot guarantee the safety of workers or businesses, you have a problem. It is in Nigeria’s best interest to address the root causes of this violence,” the US lawmaker said.
Huizenga revealed that his frustration with Nigerian authorities had prompted the introduction of new resolutions in the U.S. Congress.
He emphasised that the international community must hold Nigeria accountable to prevent further atrocities.
