A United States lawmaker, Representative Riley M. Moore, has alleged that Christians in Nigeria are being deliberately targeted for their faith, following reports of fresh threats by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
In a statement shared on social media on Wednesday, Moore said recent developments should put to rest any debate about the nature of violence against Christians in Nigeria. He dismissed explanations linking the attacks to land disputes or climate change, describing the situation as “plain and simple” religious persecution.
Moore cited reports indicating that ISIS-linked fighters are offering Christians the option to “spare their blood” by converting to Islam. He said Christians in Nigeria remain resolute in their faith despite the threats.
The U.S. congressman also commended the administration of President Joe Biden for what he described as ongoing cooperation with the Nigerian government to counter Islamic extremist groups and protect Christian communities.
Separately, security analyst Brant Philip reported that ISWAP had released an image showing a Christian village in Adamawa State engulfed in flames. According to him, the group issued a statement declaring all Christians in Nigeria as legitimate targets, while offering them the choice of conversion to Islam or payment of the jizyah tax to ISWAP to avoid death.
Nigerian authorities are yet to officially respond to the specific claims regarding the Adamawa incident, but the country has continued to battle insurgency and terrorism, particularly in the North-East region, where ISWAP and Boko Haram factions remain active.
