Senate Moves to Engage U.S. Congress Over ‘Christian Genocide’ Claims

The Nigerian Senate has resolved to open direct engagements with the United States Congress to counter what it described as “misleading and damaging narratives” portraying the country’s security challenges as a targeted genocide against Christians.

This decision followed a motion raised by Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South) during plenary on Thursday, which sparked extensive debate among lawmakers on how Nigeria’s internal security issues are perceived internationally.

The motion came in reaction to recent discussions within the U.S. Senate and Congress, as well as renewed calls by some advocacy groups urging Washington to designate Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged religious persecution.

Lawmakers expressed concern that such portrayals, though sometimes rooted in humanitarian concern, are largely inaccurate and risk harming Nigeria’s global image, investor confidence, and diplomatic relations.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio proposed the establishment of an ad hoc committee to visit the United States and engage directly with members of Congress to clarify Nigeria’s true security situation. He suggested that the engagement be handled discreetly, with a small delegation and possible closed-door discussions.

“There are misconceptions that must be corrected,” Akpabio stated. “Nigeria is facing a complex terrorist threat, and it is important for our counterparts in the U.S. to understand that these attacks affect both Christians and Muslims.”

Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (APC, Ondo South) stressed the need for Nigeria’s counterterrorism policies to be guided by informed, evidence-based strategies. He noted that the planned National Security Summit would develop homegrown solutions rather than relying on “externally imposed narratives.”

The motion cited several examples underscoring the non-sectarian nature of violence in Nigeria. It noted that in July 2023, over 20 people were killed in attacks on predominantly Christian farming communities in Plateau State, while in August of the same year, dozens of Muslim villagers were killed in bandit raids across Katsina and Zamfara states. Similar incidents were recorded in Borno and Kaduna, where terrorists attacked both churches and mosques indiscriminately.

Given the sensitivity of the issue, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion to step down further discussion for an executive session, during which the Senate would finalise details of the proposed U.S. delegation. The motion was seconded by Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central).

The Senate is expected to reconvene soon to conclude deliberations on the composition and mandate of the delegation that will engage with American lawmakers on the matter.