U.S. Lawmaker Criticizes Nigeria Over Plateau Killings

Chris Smith, a member of the United States House of Representatives, accused the Nigerian government of failing to protect its citizens after recent violent attacks in Plateau State. On August 16, several residents were killed in Jwak Maitumbi community, Mangu LGA, and less than 48 hours later, suspected Fulani militia killed at least 23 people in Bin-Per community, including women and children.

Smith, alongside Frank Garcia, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, urged the Nigerian government to take immediate action to protect Christian communities and ensure accountability for the violence. Smith criticized the government's spending of $9 million to improve its image in Washington instead of addressing the security crisis.

He referenced the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act introduced earlier this year, which mandates the U.S. Secretary of State to report on efforts to combat religious persecution and mass atrocities in Nigeria.