Dare Babalola
United States Congressman Bill Huizenga has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria, cautioning that inaction could have serious repercussions for the country.
In an interview with Arise News in Washington, D.C, released on Tuesday, Congressman Bill Huizenga pressed the Nigerian government to act promptly on allegations of religious persecution.
According to Huizenga, Nigeria risks reliving the tragedies of Rwanda and South Sudan if prompt measures are not implemented.
The lawmaker stated that he supports President Donald Trump’s move to redesignate Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern.’
“We were too late on Rwanda, we were too late on South Sudan. Let’s not be too late again on this one,” he said.
Huizenga stressed that he had personally spoken with religious leaders and villagers who described being attacked in their homes and “feeling very much targeted.”
Responding to Trump’s claim that Christianity in Nigeria faces an existential threat, Huizenga clarified that he does not foresee a military strike.
He said, “I don’t envision a surprise attack or military response. Economic pressure and sanctions on individuals and organisations would be more effective.
“Sanctions can cut off the flow of money and travel. We don’t know who is financing these operations, but targeted economic measures will have a positive impact.”
The Congressman criticised the Nigerian government’s response to the violence as inadequate and dismissive.
“They need to show what they are doing to protect not just Christians but all citizens. Their response has largely been, ‘there’s really not a problem.’ Well, I think there is,” he said.
Huizenga warned that the ongoing insecurity is also undermining Nigeria’s economic growth and deterring foreign investment.
“When you cannot guarantee the safety of workers or businesses, you have a problem. It is in Nigeria’s best interest to address the root causes of this violence,” the US lawmaker said.
Huizenga revealed that his frustration with Nigerian authorities had prompted the introduction of new resolutions in the U.S. Congress.
He emphasised that the international community must hold Nigeria accountable to prevent further atrocities.
