Nigeria has become “the most dangerous place” to be a Christian, according to US lawmakers.
A congressional report has set out the “devastating consequences” of violence carried out by “jihadist networks”, after a series of visits to the country and interviews with experts.
The report warns there has been “weak enforcement and limited accountability”, despite claims from the Nigerian government that it is addressing the violence. Security forces have also claimed that Christians are not the only group to have been targeted.
A joint committee report has been delivered to the White House, with members urging US President Donald Trump to continue his efforts in protecting Christians.
Recommendations include the president striking a bilateral agreement with Nigeria “to protect vulnerable Christian communities, eliminate jihadist terror activity, further economic cooperation, and counter adversaries in the region,” but to withhold funding from the country if action is not taken.
Lawmakers are also suggesting the US government continue demands for the repeal of oppressive sharia codes and criminal anti-blasphemy laws, and for sanctions to be put on “groups and individuals who participate in, or tolerate, violence against Christians”.
The report has been authored by the House Appropriations Committee and House Foreign Affairs Committee.
Chris Smith, House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa Chairman, accused the Nigerian government of being “complicit in and complacent about the violent religious persecution occurring within its borders”.
“By failing to punish and prosecute the Islamist extremists who wantonly rape, torture, and murder Christians and non-radical Muslims in their country, the Nigerian government has only emboldened these terrorist thugs to inflict even more suffering,” he added.
Brian Mast, House Foreign Affairs Committee chairman, said: “The US will not turn a blind eye to Christian persecution. This report shows the unrelenting plight Christians have faced for years in Nigeria. Thanks to President Trump, America is paying greater attention to this issue and leading with strength to protect religious freedom throughout the globe.”