American lawmakers have again raised concern over the rising killings and violence in Nigeria, saying the Nigerian government is not doing enough to protect Christians and other vulnerable people.
The comments were made on Tuesday during a joint meeting of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, where the lawmakers discussed reports of continuous attacks on religious communities in Nigeria.
Congressman Chris Smith said the Nigerian government has not lived up to its duty of protecting citizens. He noted that attackers continue to kill and destroy communities without punishment.
Smith, who leads the House Subcommittee on Africa, warned that the United States will hold Nigeria responsible if the violence continues. He said urgent steps are needed to save more lives.
Another lawmaker, Brian Mast, supported the renewed classification of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern.” He said the U.S. must increase pressure on Nigeria to disarm armed groups, help displaced people return home, and punish those behind the attacks.
Riley Moore, a strong voice for religious freedom in the U.S., also said the world can no longer ignore the suffering of Christians in Nigeria.
Vicky Hartzler, Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, said Nigerian authorities often ignore warning signs before attacks happen. She explained that communities sometimes report threats but receive no help from security agencies.
Hartzler called for more U.S. support but insisted that Nigerian leaders must take their responsibility seriously and act quickly to protect their people.
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