WASHINGTON D.C. – United States Representative Riley M. Moore has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian government, suggesting potential U.S. intervention following a brutal Palm Sunday assault that left at least 53 Christians dead.
The lawmaker’s comments come in the wake of two coordinated attacks on Christian communities, which he attributed to “Islamic radical terrorists.” The killings, occurring during one of the holiest weeks in the Christian calendar, have reignited international outrage over Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
“A Genocide That Must End”
In a pointed statement, Rep. Moore described the ongoing violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and Northern regions as a “genocide.” He expressed deep frustration with the Nigerian government’s perceived inability or unwillingness to protect its citizens.
“The persecution and slaughter of our brothers and sisters in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ must end NOW,” Moore declared, echoing the sentiments of several human rights groups who have labeled the targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria a humanitarian catastrophe.
Trump Administration Signals Hardline Stance
Most significantly, Rep. Moore invoked the position of President Donald Trump, suggesting that the United States is prepared to take a more direct role if the killings continue.
“President Trump has been very clear that if the Nigerian government will not address this genocide, we will address it for them,” Moore stated. The remark signals a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Nigeria, moving from diplomatic pressure to more assertive measures, which could include targeted sanctions or military assistance.
A Pattern of Violent Holidays
The Palm Sunday massacre follows a tragic pattern of holiday-period attacks in Nigeria. In late 2025, over 200 people were killed in Plateau State during a similar “Christmas Eve Massacre.”
While the Nigerian military has repeatedly vowed to “crush” the insurgents, the frequency of these coordinated strikes on religious holidays has led to a total breakdown of trust between the local communities and security forces.
Growing International Pressure
The U.S. House of Representatives is currently debating several resolutions regarding Nigeria’s status as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) for religious freedom violations. Lawmakers like Moore are pushing for the U.S. to tie future security aid to Nigeria to measurable improvements in the protection of religious minorities.
As of press time, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not officially responded to Rep. Moore’s comments or the threat of U.S. intervention.
