United States lawmakers have criticised the Nigerian government for allegedly spending millions of dollars on lobbying in Washington while insecurity and religious persecution continue to worsen at home.
The criticism was raised during a congressional hearing on religious freedom, where members of the US House of Representatives expressed concern that Nigeria had reportedly paid up to $9 million to lobbying firms to downplay v+olence and p%rsecution in the country.
One lawmaker recalled the impact of the International Religious Freedom Act passed in 1988, warning against ignoring ongoing abuses. “Passed into law in 1988 and it has made a major difference globally, including now in Nigeria. We can’t take our eyes off of that,” he said.
The chairman of the subcommittee revealed details of the contracts, describing them as troubling. “I’m deeply concerned that Nigeria has hired the K Street lobbying firm, DCI, to the tune of $9 million, $750,000 a month, and a Nigerian billionaire has entered into a $120,000-a-month contract with BALCORP to influence Congress and the executive branch,” he stated.
Another lawmaker warned that such tactics had long been used by governments accused of human rights v!0lations to clean up their international image. He compared Nigeria’s case to past examples in countries like Haiti, China, and Romania, where lobbying firms were hired to defend ab¥sive regimes.
A panel member also criticised lobbying companies for prioritising wealthy clients over victims, referencing the book Tortured for Christ by Richard Wurmbrand as an inspiration for his commitment to religious freedom.
The hearing ended with calls for stronger action and accountability, as lawmakers stressed the need for Nigeria to focus on protecting its citizens rather than spending heavily on foreign public relations.
The session reflects growing frustration in Washington over Nigeria’s handling of security challenges and raises questions about the government’s priorities amid rising v¡0lence and pers£cution.
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