US lawmakers demand action over deadly violence in Nigeria

United States lawmakers are intensifying pressure on the Nigerian government following a series of deadly attacks in Plateau State. Representative Chris Smith criticized Nigerian officials for failing to protect citizens and hold perpetrators accountable after violence in the Mangu Local Government Area resulted in numerous deaths and the destruction of homes and farmland.

In Mangu, suspected Fulani militia reportedly killed residents in the Jwak Maitumbi community and later carried out a reprisal attack in the Bin-Per community, killing at least 23 people, including women and children. While Nigerian troops have reportedly foiled some attempted attacks, US officials continue to call for immediate steps to protect vulnerable communities.

Concurrently, Congressman Riley Moore has stated that the United States will not remove Nigeria from its ‘Country of Particular Concern’ (CPC) list until the killings of Christians cease. Moore cited high rates of violence against Christian communities, alleging that Nigeria has become a focal point for religious martyrdom. The CPC designation allows the US to impose sanctions and diplomatic measures on governments accused of severe religious freedom violations. Proposed congressional actions include establishing a bilateral security agreement, withholding certain funds, and implementing targeted sanctions and visa restrictions for those complicit in the attacks.