Ted Cruz Nigeria warning highlights possible US sanctions over killings of Christians following deadly Jos attack in Plateau State

United States Senator Ted Cruz has warned that Washington could take action against Nigerian officials it believes are responsible for enabling violence against Christians, following a deadly attack in Plateau State.

Also read: Tinubu to discuss Christian killings during UK visit

Cruz issued the statement on Tuesday via his X account in response to the Palm Sunday killings in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, where at least 12 people were confirmed dead after gunmen struck the community on March 29.

“Nigerian government officials have created an environment in which Christians are routinely persecuted and slaughtered,” Cruz said, adding that the United States “knows who they are” and has the tools to hold them accountable.

The Ted Cruz Nigeria warning comes amid rising international scrutiny of Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly in the Middle Belt region.

The Plateau State Police Command confirmed that the attackers stormed the area around 8:30 p.m., killing 10 men and two women, while additional bodies were later recovered during a security sweep.

The incident also drew sharp criticism from American humanitarian Alex Barbir, who questioned the Federal Government’s response in a widely circulated video.

Addressing President Bola Tinubu, Barbir said, “When will it stop?” as he decried repeated attacks on civilians.

On the domestic front, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang visited the affected community and pledged decisive action.

“My administration will pursue justice relentlessly until the perpetrators are brought to book,” he said, while announcing support for victims, including medical care for the injured and dignified burials for the deceased.

Authorities have since imposed a 48-hour curfew in Jos North Local Government Area, alongside the deployment of additional security personnel to restore calm.

The latest violence has intensified an already delicate diplomatic exchange between Washington and Abuja.

In October 2025, US President Donald Trump designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing alleged threats to Christian communities and warning of potential sanctions.

The Federal Government rejected the designation, maintaining that Nigeria’s security challenges are driven by criminality and extremism rather than religious persecution.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier stated that there is “no Christian genocide” in the country, describing such claims as misleading.

Also read: Trump threatens further US strikes over Nigeria Christian killings

Analysts say Cruz’s remarks could heighten diplomatic tensions, even as Nigerian authorities continue efforts to contain violence and reassure both domestic and international stakeholders.