In a significant move highlighting international concern, former US President Donald Trump has reportedly instructed a key congressional committee to launch a comprehensive investigation into allegations of persecution targeting Christians in Nigeria.
Directive from the Former President
US Congressman Riley M. Moore made the revelation, stating that President Trump issued the order to him and the Republican-led House Appropriations Committee. The directive, shared by Moore on his verified account on the social media platform X, calls for a deep dive into growing reports of faith-based violence and discrimination.
According to the congressman, the order stems from numerous accounts suggesting that thousands of Christians across various regions of Nigeria have faced violent attacks, systemic discrimination, and intense pressure solely because of their religious beliefs.
Committee Begins Preliminary Work
Moore confirmed that the committee has already started preliminary work on this sensitive issue. However, the latest instruction from the former president is expected to significantly intensify these efforts, aiming to uncover the full scope and scale of the alleged violations.
To achieve a nuanced understanding of the complex situation on the ground, the committee plans a multi-stakeholder approach. A roundtable discussion will be convened, bringing together a diverse group of experts, representatives from human rights organizations, and religious leaders from Nigeria.
Roundtable Aims to Gather Testimonies
The primary goal of this session, as outlined by Congressman Moore, is to "build on the work we've done so far." The roundtable is designed as a fact-finding mission to collect detailed, firsthand information and testimonies regarding the security challenges and specific allegations of religious freedom violations in different parts of the country.
This development signals a potential escalation of U.S. congressional scrutiny on Nigeria's internal security and human rights landscape, particularly concerning inter-religious dynamics. The outcome of the probe could influence future U.S. foreign policy and aid considerations related to Nigeria.
