A United States congressman, Riley Moore, has warned that continued attacks on Christians in Nigeria could strain diplomatic relations between the United States and Nigeria.
The warning follows reports of deadly attacks in Plateau State and Kaduna State, where gunmen allegedly killed dozens of people during incidents that coincided with Palm Sunday.
According to reports, at least 40 people were killed across both states. In Angwan Rukuba, Jos, multiple casualties were recorded, while 13 wedding guests were reportedly killed in Kagarko area of Kaduna.
Reacting to the development, Moore condemned the attacks, describing them as part of a recurring pattern of violence targeting worshippers.
“This Palm Sunday, reports from Nigeria indicate that at least 10 Christians were martyred in the city of Jos. Radical Islamic terrorists opened fire on the Christians… This is sickening and unacceptable.”
He further warned:
“If they don’t take this threat seriously and mobilise to defend our brothers and sisters in Christ, blood of these martyrs will be on their hands, and there will be significant consequences for Nigeria’s relationship with the United States.”
Authorities in Plateau have since imposed a 48-hour curfew in affected areas, with Governor Caleb Mutfwang assuring residents that security agencies are working to apprehend those responsible.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force confirmed 14 deaths in the Jos attack, noting that investigations are ongoing and additional security deployments have been made to restore order.
The violence also disrupted academic activities, as the University of Jos rescheduled examinations due to rising security concerns.
Religious and community groups, including Jama’atu Nasril Islam, condemned the killings, urging calm and calling for a thorough investigation.
The incident has once again highlighted ongoing security challenges in parts of central Nigeria, with growing calls for stronger measures to prevent further escalation.
