Onanuga Fires Back at US Senator Cruz Over Alleged Killing of Christians, Warns Against Sanctions Threat on Nigeria

Presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, has issued a fiery rebuttal to United States Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, after the American lawmaker threatened to push sanctions against Nigerian officials over alleged religious persecution and the killing of Christians in the country.

Senator Cruz, in a post on X, accused Nigerian authorities of “ignoring and even facilitating the mass murder of Christians by Islamist jihadists,” vowing to push his Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act which, according to him, would place “powerful sanctions and other tools” on those found culpable.

“It’s time to hold those responsible accountable,” the senator declared.

But Onanuga, speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, described Cruz’s remarks as “malicious lies” aimed at distorting the reality in Nigeria.

“Senator, stop these malicious, contrived lies against my country. We do not have a religious war in Nigeria,” Onanuga retorted in a strongly-worded response.

He explained that terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and armed bandits operate indiscriminately, targeting Muslims and Christians alike.

“The degraded Boko Haram terrorists operating on the fringes of the North-East target everyone—they attack farmers, soldiers, and civilians. The bandits in the North-West kill worshippers even in mosques. Christians are not targeted. We enjoy religious harmony in Nigeria. Stop these malicious lies,” he stated.

The exchange has sparked debate both at home and abroad, with observers noting the growing scrutiny Nigeria faces from international lawmakers over human rights and religious freedom.