Senator Ted Cruz of the United States has accused the federal government of masking policies that allegedly enable attacks on Christians.
Cruz, in a statement posted on his X account on Friday, alleged that Nigeria’s leadership is fully aware that certain internal policies contribute to the climate of violence against Christian communities. Rather than addressing these concerns, he claims, the government is investing in a strategic media effort to counter the allegations.
He argued that the combination of enforcing sharia-based measures in some regions and tolerating extremist violence has created the conditions for what he calls widespread persecution. Cruz insisted he would work to ensure that the Nigerian government is held accountable on the global stage.
His remarks come as Nigerian officials attempt to reshape the narrative internationally. Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar recently dismissed claims of Christian genocide during an interview on Piers Morgan Uncensored, insisting that the government protects all citizens equally.
The diplomatic strain has deepened since U.S. President Donald Trump placed Nigeria on the list of “countries of particular concern,” citing persistent attacks on Christians and alleged government inaction. Trump went further, revealing that the Pentagon had been instructed to consider potential military responses if Nigeria fails to curb religiously targeted killings.
Nigeria has repeatedly rejected accusations of religious persecution, maintaining that ongoing security challenges affect all groups and that it does not discriminate based on faith.
