US Delegation Meets Benue Clerics Over Alleged Attacks On Christians

A United States delegation on a fact-finding mission into alleged attacks on Christians in Nigeria visited Benue State on Monday.

During their visit, the delegation met with Catholic bishops and the traditional ruler of the Tiv people.

US Congressman Riley Moore shared the encounter on X, expressing his support for Tiv and Christian leaders in the state.

“It was an honour and deeply moving to meet with His Excellency Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, Bishop Isaac Dugu, and His Royal Highness James Ioruza, traditional ruler of the Tiv people, to discuss the ongoing genocidal campaign by the Fulani in Benue State,” Moore wrote.

A long-time advocate for the protection of Christian communities in Nigeria, Moore emphasised that the United States would not ignore the challenges highlighted by local leaders.

“Our brothers and sisters in Christ will no longer suffer in silence,” he said. “The United States has heard your cries, and we are working diligently toward solutions.”

Earlier, Moore commended the Federal Government for its openness and cooperation with the US in tackling Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, following his meeting with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu on Sunday.

Describing his visit as “very productive,” Moore noted on X, “More details to come. Happy Sunday. God is Great!”

On Monday, he provided additional updates, explaining that discussions focused on terrorism in the North-East and violent attacks in the Middle Belt, matters he said were of particular concern to President Donald Trump and himself.

“There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length, that if fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians, disrupt and destroy terrorist organisations in the northeast and stop the killing of Christians (a specific concern for @POTUS and me), particularly in the Middle Belt of the country,” Moore wrote.

He also praised the recent rescue of 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren, expressing gratitude to the Nigerian government and President Bola Tinubu.

“I want to thank the Nigerian government and @officialABAT for rescuing the 100 innocent and precious Catholic school children.

“This is a positive demonstration of the government’s increasing response to the security situation and shows commitment to the emergency declaration laid out by President Tinubu,” he added.

Moore also noted that US concerns were well-received and pointed to the establishment of a Nigeria-US joint task force as a sign of deepening cooperation.