United States Senator Ted Cruz has announced plans to introduce legislation that would hold Nigerian officials accountable for introducing and enforcing Sharia and blasphemy laws, which he said have contributed to the persecution of Christians in the country.
In a statement shared on social media, Cruz thanked former US President Donald Trump for designating Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” over religious persecution, describing the move as a “critical step in holding accountable and changing the behavior of Nigerian officials.”
“I am deeply gratified to President Trump for making this determination. I have fought for years to counter the slaughter and persecution of Christians in Nigeria, and this year introduced legislation that will lock in the designation made today,” Cruz stated.
The Texas senator explained that his proposed bill would take further action against human rights abuses in Nigeria, focusing on officials responsible for enforcing or promoting laws that criminalize blasphemy and impose religious-based punishments.
“My legislation implements additional steps, including targeting those who implement blasphemy and Sharia laws in Nigeria, and I am committed to working with the administration and my colleagues to advance my bill and implement these necessary measures,” he added.
Cruz also praised President Trump’s decision as “a great one,” commending his “strong leadership” and stressing that the new legislation would help strengthen protections for Christians and other religious minorities in Nigeria.
