US Bill Proposes Sanctions Against Kwankwaso, Miyetti Allah for Alleged Christian Persecution in Nigeria

The proposed "Nigeria Religious Freedom Account Act 2026" introduced by US Congressman Riley Moore and co-sponsored by Rep. Chris Smith aims to sanction individuals and groups in Nigeria, including Miyetti Allah and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, for alleged persecution of Christians.

MACBAN expressed shock at the bill, denying any terrorist connections. The bill empowers the US Secretary of State to determine if certain Fulani militia in Nigeria meet criteria as foreign terrorist organizations.

It also recommends increased humanitarian aid for affected communities in Nigeria's Middle Belt. The bill's introduction follows concerns over religious freedom violations in Nigeria, with the US previously designating the country as a particular concern for religious freedom violations.

The Nigerian government has rejected claims of a religious war, attributing security challenges to various factors, including terrorism and land resource competition.