Rep. Riley Moore (R-WV) appeared on “Fox News Sunday” with Shannon Bream to address the ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria. The country has become known as one of the most dangerous places for Christians, with many facing attacks and death at the hands of Islamic militant groups.
Shannon Bream introduced Moore as “one of the first lawmakers to bring this to national attention,” and asked about possible investigations and recommendations for presidential action. Moore responded, “We’ve already started that investigation, and it’s the House Appropriations Committee and we are working with the other relevant stakeholders in Congress, including the House Foreign Affairs Committee.”
He emphasized ongoing collaboration: “We are in constant coordination and communication on this issue but we are going to get to the bottom of this.” Referring to recent coverage of violence in Nigeria, Moore said, “The map that you just showed really highlights the tragedy that’s going on there. How horrific this is, these killings of these Christians, our brothers and sisters in Christ.” He also noted former President Trump’s position: “President Trump has stated, we’re going to stop this.”
Bream referenced a statement from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu denying reports of widespread persecution. She said, “He said the picture we are getting here is not accurate.” Moore disputed Tinubu’s claim: “Unfortunately, that is completely false. I mean there are states in Nigeria that have blasphemy laws, people who are facing the death penalty right now for blasphemy against Islam,” adding, “There is a person currently right now who is held in prison for defending himself from attack from a Muslim militant.”
Moore continued by stressing the severity of Christian persecution: “He defended himself and he is facing the death penalty. So, no, there is serious persecution happening in Nigeria.”
Bream cited reporting indicating that Muslims have also been victims of violence but suggested those incidents receive less attention. Moore responded: “There are Muslims that are being killed here, but the deaths that we have been able to garner from the facts on the ground, it’s five to one. Five to one Christians versus other minorities.”
When asked about possible U.S. responses given Nigeria’s status as a sovereign nation, Moore said: “I think we absolutely do. Look, we are a Christian nation and a nation that believes in values and virtues of standing up for people who are being persecuted. That designation the President just did, a country of particular concern, unlocks 15 different levers that the President can use against that country. Sanctions being one of them, withholding development dollars.” He added further options were under consideration: “The President has put all options on the table including military kinetic action.”
A segment featuring Rep. Riley Moore discussing religious persecution in Nigeria was posted by Fox News Sunday on social media.
