Jos Attack: Impose sanctions on Nigeria – U.S lawmaker writes Secretary Rubio

A United States lawmaker, Mark Harris, has urged Secretary of State, Marco Rubio to impose sanctions on Nigeria over what he described as worsening violence against Christians.

In a letter dated April 2, 2026, Harris raised concerns about what he called escalating persecution of Christians in Nigeria and Syria, saying the situation requires urgent attention from the U.S. government.

He argued that attacks on Christian communities go beyond political unrest, describing them as violations of human dignity, religious freedom and fundamental rights that governments are obligated to protect.

The congressman called on the U.S. State Department to pressure both Nigeria and Syria to take decisive steps to safeguard Christian populations, noting that many have been killed, displaced or subjected to repeated attacks.

Harris acknowledged previous U.S. measures, including the designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern and actions targeting extremist groups, but said recent incidents remain alarming.

He cited reports of a Palm Sunday attack in Plateau State in which at least 30 people were reportedly killed, describing it as part of a broader pattern of violence against Christians.

According to him, such incidents are not isolated, but reflect a growing trend of attacks allegedly carried out by Islamic militants, with governments either failing to respond adequately or downplaying the severity.

“In Nigeria, reports indicate that at least 30 people were killed in a Palm Sunday massacre in Plateau State, which is yet another horrifying reminder that Christians in parts of Nigeria continue to face deadly violence with far too little protection or accountability from the Nigerian government.

“The fact is, these are not isolated incidents. They are part of a broader and growing pattern of anti-Christian violence plaguing both countries at the hands of Islamic militants, while both governments continue to either ignore or downplay the severity of these attacks, and Christians continue to pay the price.”

Harris asked the State Department to clarify steps taken in response to the violence and what consequences could be imposed if Nigeria and Syria fail to act.

He also queried whether the U.S. is considering additional measures such as sanctions, visa restrictions or conditions on aid to compel stronger action from the affected countries.

The lawmaker stressed that the situation is particularly concerning as Christians mark the Holy Week, noting that many in affected regions continue to worship under fear or mourn victims of violence.