U.S. Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson rejected what he described as the “dangerous fiction” that Nigeria is engaged in a one-sided religious war targeting Christians.

Speaking at a US congressional hearing on the matter in Washington, DC, on Thursday, Jackson said the portrayal of a Christian persecution in Nigeria felt “simplistic” and does not account for the country’s diversity.

Jackson warned that such narratives oversimplify one of Africa’s most complex and diverse societies, and risk fueling further misunderstanding and polarisation.

A country of nearly 240 million people, home to 250 ethnic groups and two major religions – Christianity and Islam – that have coexisted and built a society together for generations. The idea that this nation (Nigeria) simply engaged in a one-sided religious war, I believe, is dangerous fiction.” He said.

Rejecting a Simplistic Narrative
Jackson criticised the rising international portrayal of Christian persecution in Nigeria as “simplistic,” stressing that the country’s insecurity is driven by multiple factors, including banditry, terrorism, communal clashes, economic distress, and governance weaknesses, none of which neatly fit a single-faith explanation.

The current government, led by President Tinubu, a Muslim married to a Christian, reflects this complexity. Out of 9 top security chiefs, 5 are Christians,” Jackson added.

“Nigeria is a diverse, complex democracy, and we must treat it as such. The suffering in Nigeria is immense. Insecurity is a major issue for all Nigerians. We must stand firmly with every victim and survivor,” he noted.

“Violence against any person of faith is not acceptable. With approximately 8000 civilians of all faiths killed so far this year, the pain felt by Christians and Muslims communities alike deserve our compassion, and again not our exploitation.”
The Congressman pushed back against calls for a heavy-handed military response from the United States, urging lawmakers and policymakers to prioritise diplomacy, partnership, and stronger support for Nigeria’s internal security reforms.