US Lawmaker Raises Alarm Over ‘Convert or Die’ Threat Against Christians in Nigeria

US Lawmaker Raises Alarm Over ‘Convert or Die’ Threat Against Christians in Nigeria

A United States lawmaker has raised fresh concerns over the killing of Christians by terrorists linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in northeastern Nigeria, warning that extremist threats against religious minorities in the region are worsening.

The lawmaker, Riley M. Moore, reacted after reports emerged that ISWAP fighters carried out a deadly attack in Adamawa State in February that reportedly left at least 27 Christians dead and several homes destroyed.

Security analyst Brant Philip had earlier shared details of the incident online, noting that the terrorists later admitted responsibility for the assault and issued a chilling ultimatum to Christian communities in the area.

According to a message circulating on social media platform X, the militants allegedly warned that Christians must “either pay the jizyah tax, convert to Islam, or be killed.” The statement described the ultimatum as a “fair deal,” sparking outrage among international observers.

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Reacting in a post on X, Moore condemned the threat and described the development as a clear case of religious persecution in Nigeria.

“Christians continue to be explicitly targeted for their faith in Nigeria,” Moore said.

“ISIS-West Africa is slaughtering Christians and telling other Christians they must convert or die. In our report to the White House, we made it clear that increased American support is contingent on the Nigerian government doing more to defend Christians. Now is the time for Abuja to step up.”

The comments highlight growing international concern about terrorist attacks in Nigeria’s northeast, where insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP have continued to target communities, places of worship and security forces.

Nigeria has been battling a prolonged insurgency for more than a decade, particularly in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states, where thousands of people have been killed and millions displaced by extremist violence.

Human rights organisations and religious freedom advocates have repeatedly warned that Christian minorities in rural communities remain vulnerable to targeted attacks, especially in remote areas with limited security presence.

Although the Nigerian military has intensified operations against insurgent groups in recent years, attacks, kidnappings and raids by militants still occur across several parts of the northeast.

Moore’s latest remarks add to increasing international calls for stronger efforts to protect vulnerable communities and improve security in Nigeria’s conflict-affected regions.

US Lawmaker Raises Alarm Over ‘Convert or Die’ Threat Against Christians in Nigeria