Nigerian Presidency Alleges U.S. Lawmakers Pushing Sanctions Over Religious Persecution

The Nigerian Presidency has accused U.S. lawmakers and lobbyists of orchestrating an agenda to impose sanctions on Nigeria, alleging religious persecution against minorities. Special adviser to President Bola Tinubu made the claims, citing deliberate twisting of incidents to portray Nigeria as engaging in systematic religious persecution.

The accusations stem from concerns under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act, with lobbying efforts referencing Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks.

The Presidency refutes the claims, emphasizing Nigeria's security challenges are rooted in terrorism, banditry, and criminal activities rather than state-sponsored religious persecution.