A proposed U.S. congressional bill could place 12 Nigerian governors, prominent traditional rulers, and other public officials on a sanctions blacklist for their alleged roles in religious persecution, according to media reports.
The so-called CPC Blacklist (Country of Particular Concern) scheme is tied to Nigeria’s recent U.S. designation as a nation of concern over attacks on Christians. Under the bill, implicated individuals could face visa bans, asset freezes, and export restrictions.
Coverage identifies the 12 governors as predominantly from Nigeria’s northern states, many of which practice Sharia or blasphemy laws. The legislation targets officials said to have “promoted, enforced or tolerated violence against religious minorities.”
Christian groups have welcomed the proposal. Rev. John Hayab, Northern chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), said the blacklist “offers a path to accountability if Nigeria’s leaders continue to turn a blind eye to killings.” He urged President Tinubu to support reforms.
But critics argue the measure is too blunt. A legal scholar close to the presidency warned that penalising political officeholders this way “risks undermining sovereignty and complicating U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation.”
If passed, the bill could dramatically escalate diplomatic tensions between Abuja and Washington — especially amid recent disputes over religious freedom claims, economic ties, and security partnerships.
