U.S. lawmakers Urge Sanctions On Miyetti Allah Over Alleged Religious Violations

The United States House of Representatives has called on the Departments of State and Treasury to impose sanctions on individuals and groups, including the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore, over alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria.

The resolution, H. Res. 860, was introduced by Rep. Christopher Smith and co-sponsored by Rep. Paul Huizenga. It commends former President Donald Trump for redesignating Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern (CPC)” following reports of widespread persecution of Christians and other religious minorities.

Citing NGO and media reports, the lawmakers accused Islamist terror groups and Fulani militias of mass k+llings, abductions, and destruction of worship centers, especially in Benue and Plateau States. They urged the US to impose visa bans and asset freezes under the Global Magnitsky Act and to list Fulani militias as Entities of Particular Concern.

They further advised that US foreign aid to Nigeria be tied to measurable human-rights improvements and that direct humanitarian support be provided to faith-based groups assisting displaced victims.

In response, Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, dismissed the CPC designation as a result of “misrepresentation and misinformation,” insisting that terrorism in the country affects both Christians and Muslims, not any specific religious group.