By Paul Joseph
United States Congressman Riley Moore has called on the administration of President Donald Trump to take what he described as “forceful action” to protect Christians in Nigeria, alleging that they are being targeted in violent attacks in the country’s Middle Belt region.
Moore made the renewed appeal while reacting to recent killings in Plateau State, claiming that Christian communities were attacked during a mass burial ceremony for victims of earlier violence.
In a series of strongly worded statements, the lawmaker accused Nigerian authorities of failing to respond effectively to intelligence warnings and not doing enough to prevent repeated attacks on rural communities.
“Now, I am asking the Trump Administration to take forceful action to defend our innocent brothers and sisters in Christ,” Moore said.
He further compared Nigeria’s alleged domestic security response with its reported participation in cross-border security operations, arguing that the contrast raised serious concerns.
“When I visited Nigeria, the government responded swiftly to quell a coup in Benin. Nigeria’s willingness to step in to stop a violent attack in another country, while they stand by as their own Christian citizens are brutalised, makes these scenes unfolding in Plateau State all the more unconscionable,” he stated.
Moore also alleged that Christians attending a burial were killed by what he described as “radical Islamic terrorists,” insisting that Nigerian authorities have the capacity to prevent such incidents but have failed to act decisively.
He escalated his comments further, describing the situation as a “Christian genocide” and calling for increased US involvement in Nigeria’s security efforts.
“Enough is enough,” he declared, while urging Washington to adopt stronger measures under its counterterrorism framework.
Moore also referenced recent US policy positions, noting that he welcomed the Trump administration’s focus on protecting Christians in Nigeria within its updated counterterrorism strategy, but insisted that more aggressive action should follow.
The remarks come amid ongoing debate over insecurity in Nigeria, particularly in the northern and central regions, where armed groups, bandits and insurgents have repeatedly attacked rural communities.
While some international commentators argue that Christians are being specifically targeted, Nigerian authorities maintain that the violence is driven largely by terrorism, banditry and long-standing communal conflicts over land and resources rather than religious persecution.
The renewed comments are expected to further intensify diplomatic discussions between Washington and Abuja over security cooperation and counterterrorism efforts in West Africa.
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