Senator Ted Cruz is raising the alarm over alleged mass persecution of Christians in Nigeria, claiming more than 50,000 Christians have been killed since 2009 and over 20,000 churches and Christian schools destroyed under state or local complicity.
Cruz introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act, which would sanction Nigerian officials accused of targeting Christians and empower U.S. oversight of such violations. He argued that Nigeria’s federal and state governments enforce blasphemy laws and permit extremist violence against believers.
Nigeria’s Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, strongly denied Cruz’s figures. He called them “absolutely false” and “very misleading,” asserting that the country supports religious harmony among Christians and Muslims. The government also rejected claims of systematic targeting of Christian institutions and people.
Christian advocacy groups and Open Doors note that Nigeria is consistently among the most dangerous countries in the world to profess Christianity, with reports showing Christians account for a large share of faith-based killings globally. Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of Nigeria’s Makurdi Diocese has testified before U.S. Congress that the violence reflects a long-term agenda to suppress Christian identity through harassment and extremism.
Critics warn the dispute may exacerbate diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Nigeria. Cruz’s demands for accountability and sanctions risk being seen as interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs. Meanwhile, Christian survivors and local churches press for international attention to ongoing attacks by Islamist militants.
