A member of the United States Congress, Rep. Riley M. Moore, has insisted that about 7,000 Christians have been killed across Nigeria in 2025, despite denials by the Nigerian government that any targeted religious genocide is taking place.
In a recent interview with Fox News, Rep. Moore described the alleged killings as a “tragedy that has been going on for decades without anyone talking about it.”
He said the international community must no longer remain silent over what he called the ongoing persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
“7,000 Christians have been murdered in Nigeria this year. That’s 35 Christians murdered per day. It’s a tragedy that cannot be ignored any longer,” Moore said.
The American lawmaker also disclosed that he had written a letter to U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, urging the redesignation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)” — a classification reserved for nations accused of serious violations of religious freedom.
“That’s why I sent a letter to Secretary Rubio to redesignate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern. It’s time we took a stand to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ,” he added.
Rep. Moore’s comments come weeks after he and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz called on Washington to take stronger action against the Nigerian government over the alleged targeted killings of Christians.
Nigeria was previously listed as a “Country of Particular Concern” under the U.S. International Religious Freedom Act, but was removed from the list in 2021. Several U.S. lawmakers and human rights groups have since criticised that decision, citing continued attacks on Christian communities, especially in parts of the North and Middle Belt.
However, the Nigerian government has repeatedly dismissed such claims, saying the country’s security challenges affect people of all faiths and ethnic groups.
Presidential media aide, Daniel Bwala, recently described the genocide allegations as “false and misleading,” insisting that the violence in Nigeria is driven by criminality and terrorism rather than religion.
“It is wrong to describe the killings as genocide against Christians. Bandits and terrorists have attacked both Muslim and Christian communities. The government is working hard to restore peace,” Bwala said.
Nigeria has faced years of insecurity marked by attacks from Boko Haram, ISWAP insurgents, and armed bandit groups, particularly in the northern and central regions. Thousands of civilians — including both Christians and Muslims — have been killed or displaced in the violence.
International rights organisations, including Open Doors and Amnesty International, have reported recurring attacks on churches, Christian villages, and clergy members. However, they also acknowledge that Muslim communities have suffered mass killings, kidnappings, and property destruction.
Rep. Moore’s renewed push for U.S. action has drawn attention in diplomatic circles, with some observers saying the allegations could strain relations between Abuja and Washington if not carefully managed.
While the Nigerian government continues to reject any suggestion of religious persecution, the lawmaker insists that stronger international pressure is needed to hold those responsible accountable.
“We can no longer look away. The world must speak out for those being killed simply because of their faith,” Moore said.
As of press time, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs had yet to issue an official response to the U.S. congressman’s latest claims.
