The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has strongly rejected a U.S. congressional bill that proposes targeted sanctions against its national leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, over allegations of severe religious freedom violations.
The proposed legislation, The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026 (H.R. 7457), reportedly names Kwankwaso—a former governor and presidential candidate—alongside the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association and a Fulani militia, for potential visa bans and asset freezes.
In a formal statement, the NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, dismissed the allegations as unfounded. He described the move as a “contrived action” against an innocent man with no ties to religious fundamentalism, urging a proper investigation before such conclusions are drawn.
The party’s defense centers on Kwankwaso’s record, citing his governance in Kano State where, it claims, he effectively countered the Boko Haram insurgency and maintained collaborative relationships with Christian leaders. The NNPP also highlighted his 2023 presidential ticket, which featured a Christian running mate, Bishop Isaac Idahosa, as evidence of his inclusive stance.
A key point of contention is the implementation of Sharia law in Kano under Kwankwaso’s tenure, which a U.S. congressman, Riley Moore, has cited as evidence of complicity in the persecution of Christians. The NNPP countered that Kwankwaso was among several northern governors who adopted Sharia, questioning why only he is targeted. The statement noted the United States maintains diplomatic relations with other Sharia-implementing nations like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, suggesting a selective application of policy.
The party further implied political motives, connecting the timing of the bill to Kwankwaso’s frequent criticism of Nigeria’s current administration over insecurity and a reported U.S. consultancy paid by the Nigerian government.
The NNPP has called for a thorough investigation by Congress, particularly Representatives Riley Moore and Chris Smith, to clear Kwankwaso’s name. The proposed sanctions, if enacted, would represent a significant escalation in U.S. legislative focus on individual Nigerian political figures and could complicate bilateral relations, raising broader questions about sovereignty and the criteria for targeted sanctions.
