A political movement in Nigeria has reacted with surprise to a proposed United States bill that calls for sanctions against individuals and organisations accused of religious freedom violations.
The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026, introduced by Congressman Riley Moore and co-sponsored by Congressman Chris Smith, proposes visa bans and asset freezes for those found culpable under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.
Among those named in the draft legislation is Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, former Governor of Kano State and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement. The bill also refers to Fulani ethnic militias and groups such as the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.
The proposed law calls on US authorities to evaluate whether certain Fulani militias should be designated as foreign terrorist organisations. It also outlines plans for humanitarian support to Nigeria’s Middle Belt, to be channelled through faith-based and non-governmental organisations, with joint financial backing from Washington and Abuja.
Congressman Moore, announcing the bill on social media, stated that the United States must stand with persecuted Christians worldwide. He said the measure builds upon Nigeria’s previous designation as a Country of Particular Concern and a recent bilateral security agreement between the two nations.
The Kwankwasiyya Movement said it was unaware of the proposal until reports emerged.
Speaking on behalf of the group, spokesperson Mansur Umar Kurugu said: “We received the information just like any other Nigerians with a shock. At the moment, we are studying what that means. At a later time, we shall issue a proper statement regarding that.”
He confirmed that the movement would consult internally before issuing a detailed response.
