US Lawmakers Push for Sanctions, Travel Bans on Miyetti Allah Over Alleged Religious Persecution in Nigeria
Story; written by Uzuh Rita November 7,2025
ABUJA — A bill newly introduced in the United States Congress seeks to impose visa restrictions and freeze assets linked to the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, accusing the groups of involvement in serious violations of religious freedom, particularly against Christian communities.
The legislation, sponsored by Representative Christopher Smith, follows Washington’s renewed designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act — a classification reserved for governments that tolerate or commit grave abuses of religious rights.
While the move has sparked international attention, the Federal Government has responded calmly, saying it has opened diplomatic channels with the US and remains committed to safeguarding every citizen, regardless of ethnicity or religion.
FG: “No Panic — We Are Engaging Diplomatically”
Speaking after the Federal Executive Council meeting, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris said Nigeria is addressing both the security situation and Washington’s concerns.
“The killing of even one citizen is unacceptable to this government. Nigeria guarantees freedom of worship, and we are working with our international partners to keep our people safe,” he said.
He emphasized that neither the President nor the cabinet is alarmed, stressing that the government is responding seriously but responsibly, maintaining national dignity while cooperating internationally.
Tinubu: Nigeria Will Defeat Terrorism
President Bola Tinubu also reaffirmed that his administration will intensify security operations and international engagement to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
“We will overcome terrorism in this country. The task is enormous, but we move forward with unity, diplomacy, and determination,” Tinubu said.
His comments came after reports that former US President Donald Trump threatened military intervention if attacks on Christians persist.
Bill Adds Fulani Militias to US Watchlist
Beyond Miyetti Allah, the proposed US legislation lists “Fulani Ethnic Militias” in Benue and Plateau as Entities of Particular Concern—the same category as Boko Haram, ISIS-West Africa, ISIS-Sahel, Taliban, and Houthis.
Supporters of the bill argue that targeted sanctions are necessary to protect Christian communities facing attacks in several northern and central states. Critics, however, insist Nigeria’s insecurity is driven by complex political and economic issues, not religion alone.
US Military Contingency Plans Surface
A report from The New York Times indicates that the Pentagon has drafted multiple military-response options, ranging from intelligence support to possible drone strikes and even the deployment of carrier strike groups in the Gulf of Guinea.
Senior defense officials reportedly acknowledge that limited airstrikes alone would not resolve the insurgency unless part of a much larger campaign — something Washington is not currently pursuing.
Tinubu Rejects Claims of Religious Persecution
In a personal statement, President Tinubu dismissed the portrayal of Nigeria as hostile to Christians:
“Nigeria remains a democratic nation founded on constitutional freedoms. Religious liberty is protected, and we continue working with leaders of all faiths to secure every community.”
What Happens Next
The bill is still before the US Congress. If passed, it could have major diplomatic implications, affecting members of Miyetti Allah, affiliated militias, and possibly Nigerian officials.
Political analysts say the outcome may shape future US–Nigeria security cooperation, foreign aid, and human rights monitoring.
