US lawmaker Riley Moore urges sanctions and repeal of Sharia laws to protect Christians and curb violence in Nigeria

United States Congressman Riley M. Moore has called for sanctions and the repeal of blasphemy and Sharia laws in Nigeria to address violence against Christian communities, the White House confirmed on Tuesday.

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Moore presented a report to the U.S. administration following months of investigation, including a bipartisan congressional visit to Nigeria, consultations with religious leaders, meetings with internally displaced persons, and discussions with senior Nigerian officials.

The report recommends establishing a bilateral U.S.-Nigeria security agreement to protect vulnerable Christian communities and dismantle jihadist networks.

It further calls for withholding certain U.S. funds until the Nigerian government demonstrates action against religious persecution.

Moore urged visa restrictions and sanctions against individuals allegedly responsible for the attacks, while also proposing technical support to tackle violence linked to armed Fulani militias.

The report highlights the need for repeal of laws that contribute to religious discrimination.

“Our brothers and sisters in Christ have suffered in silence for too long. The world is now watching,” Moore stated. He added that stronger collaboration between the United States and Nigeria is essential to bring an end to the crisis.

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The report follows Nigeria’s redesignation as a Country of Particular Concern in October 2025, a move that prompted Moore and Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole to lead the congressional investigation.