U.S Congress probes alleged Christian killings in Nigeria

The United States Congress has launched a full-scale investigation into alleged systematic killings of Christians in Nigeria, days after President Donald Trump redesignated the country as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for religious freedom violations.

The House Subcommittee on Africa will hold a public hearing on November 20, 2025, chaired by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ).

The session will feature senior State Department officials, including Jonathan Pratt and Jacob McGee, as well as Nigerian religious leaders such as Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and human rights advocates Nina Shea and Oge Onubogu.

Trump’s October 31 CPC designation — currently before the U.S Senate — could pave the way for sanctions on Nigerian officials, restrictions on US assistance, and other punitive measures.

Trump had warned of halting U.S aid and even potential military action if Nigeria “continues to allow the killing of Christians,” a claim President Bola Tinubu strongly rejected as a misrepresentation of Nigeria’s religious reality.

Tinubu insisted Nigeria remains committed to religious freedom, describing Trump’s remarks as inaccurate and harmful.

The investigation follows heightened international concern over violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria, including attacks by extremist groups and armed herdsmen.

Bishop Anagbe, who will testify before Congress, has repeatedly raised alarms about killings and displacement in Benue and elsewhere.

US lawmakers remain divided on Trump’s strong rhetoric. While Rep. Riley Moore defended the CPC designation and accused Nigeria of enabling persecution, Rep.

Bill Huizenga played down the likelihood of US military action, saying sanctions — not force — were more realistic tools.

The Vatican also weighed in, with Pope Leo XIV expressing concern over attacks on Christians in Nigeria and other countries.

Back home, the Tinubu administration has intensified peace efforts, sending emissary Dr. Abiodun Essiet to Plateau State to mediate between Christian and Fulani communities.

Her intervention recently resolved a local farmer-herdsmen dispute involving destroyed farmland and compensation.

The congressional hearing is expected to explore Nigeria’s religious violence, assess US policy options, and determine next steps in the evolving diplomatic standoff.