At DC Congressional Hearing, Temilade Okesanjo highlights Strategy Gaps on Nigeria, US relations

Following statements by President Donald J. Trump and outcome of a U.S. Congressional hearing on Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” for religious persecution, Nigeria sent a delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to Washington, D.C., to present its position on allegations of targeted killings, attacks on Christian communities, and enforcement […]

Following statements by President Donald J. Trump and outcome of a U.S. Congressional hearing on Nigeria’s designation as a “Country of Particular Concern” for religious persecution, Nigeria sent a delegation led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to Washington, D.C., to present its position on allegations of targeted killings, attacks on Christian communities, and enforcement of blasphemy laws.

During the hearing, members of the US Congress highlighted some alarming figures: such as estimates indicating that between 50,000 and 100,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria since 2009, with more than 7,000 murdered in 2025 alone.

There are also over 19,000 churches reportedly attacked or destroyed. In Benue and Plateau States, more than 9,500 people—mostly Christians—were killed between May 2023 and May 2025, displacing over half a million residents. Coordinated assaults during holy days, attacks on clergy, and enforcement of blasphemy laws under Sharia criminal codes underscore the severity of the situation.

Also during the hearing, Congress members questioned the rationale for Nigeria’s removal from the CPC list under the previous administration, asking whether evidence-based actions justified that decision.

Temilade Okesanjo, attending in an independent capacity, observed that these questions were not substantively answered, raising concerns about the sufficiency of documentation and follow-through.

US lawmakers also inquired about prosecutions for major cases, noting that in many instances, no prosecutions had been initiated, emphasizing the need for transparent, verifiable action from the federal government.

Okesanjo also provided strategic advice to Congress on how U.S. engagement could be more constructive and evidence-based, encouraging alignment with Nigeria’s national priorities while incorporating civil society, youth groups, and independent authorities. By ensuring that support is informed by comprehensive and verified data, the U.S. can act constructively without relying on partial or misrepresented information.

Congress members also stressed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must take decisive leadership in addressing insecurity, noting that U.S. assistance depends on Nigeria’s active ownership.

She emphasized that a coordinated response grounded in empirical data is essential for Nigeria to be taken seriously internationally, asserting sovereignty while demonstrating accountability and credibility.

Her counsel highlights the need for transparent, evidence-based communication, including detailed records of arrests, prosecutions, and humanitarian interventions. Coordinated federal and state action, she noted, is critical to addressing insecurity comprehensively and projecting a posture of respect on the global stage.

Okesanjo has previously advised the Nigerian Presidency and government agencies on high-pressure situations, including the EndSARS protests and labor union negotiations under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

She also introduced initiatives such as the Integrity Award in collaboration with the ICPC. Her engagement in Washington reflects her experience in providing impartial, strategic guidance at the intersection of governance, security, and international engagement.