The United States Congress is considering the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, a bill sponsored by Senator Ted Cruz that could impose sanctions on twelve northern governors, traditional rulers, and senior judges over alleged complicity in what American lawmakers describe as a “Christian genocide” and violations of religious freedom in Nigeria.
The bill follows renewed attention from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently accused Nigerian authorities of failing to protect Christians from violence. Trump, in a post on Truth Social, claimed that thousands of Christians have been killed and instructed Congress to investigate the situation, warning that U.S. aid to Nigeria could be halted and even hinting at possible military action if the killings continue.
Under the proposed Act, Nigeria would be officially designated a “Country of Particular Concern” for religious persecution. The U.S. Secretary of State would be required to list and sanction Nigerian officials found guilty of enforcing Sharia or blasphemy laws, or tolerating violence justified by religion. Sanctions could include visa bans, asset freezes, and financial restrictions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability framework.
Critics of Nigeria’s Sharia-based laws argue that they enable persecution of Christians and converts, citing high-profile blasphemy cases such as the killing of Deborah Samuel in Sokoto and several other mob lynchings.
Responding to Trump’s warning, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take decisive steps to end religious killings. Northern CAN Chairman, Rev. John Hayab, said the U.S. action was a “wake-up call” for Nigerian leaders to protect all citizens and address injustice.
“Trump is saying there are killings in Nigeria — which is true. Stop it, and that ends it,” Hayab said.
If passed, the bill would mandate the U.S. government to maintain sanctions and increase pressure on Nigerian officials accused of enabling religious persecution.
