LAGOS: US Sen. Ted Cruz has been trying to rally fellow evangelical Christians and urge Congress to designate Nigeria as a violator of religious freedom with unfounded claims of “Christian mass murder,” which the government of the West African nation has vehemently rejected as false.
Cruz, a Republican member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, wants Nigeria to be designated a country of particular concern as one with “severe violations” of religious freedom. Designated countries include Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. A designation could result in US sanctions. The bill he introduced last month is awaiting action by the Senate and there is no certainty of it being approved.
Cruz’ claims have been amplified by some celebrities and commentators in the US, without evidence, with some going as far as alleging a “Christian genocide.” Cruz’ office did not respond to questions, including about his motivation for the allegations.
Here’s what to know.
Both Christians and Muslims are killed
