A proposed law in the United States Congress could impose sanctions on certain northern Nigerian officials — including governors, judges, traditional rulers, and Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi — over alleged support for blasphemy laws and tolerance of religious-motivated violence.
The bill seeks visa bans, asset freezes, and financial penalties under the Global Magnitsky Act for those accused of enforcing or enabling blasphemy-related abuses. The sanctions would target officials in 12 states where Sharia criminal codes operate: Zamfara, Kano, Sokoto, Katsina, Bauchi, Borno, Jigawa, Kebbi, Yobe, Kaduna, Niger, and Gombe.
It follows several high-profile blasphemy cases and mob killings in the region, with rights groups condemning death sentences and failures to protect victims.
Responding from Turkey, Sheikh Ahmad Gumi said he had not been officially notified but would not be surprised if he is listed. He suggested U.S. pressure is due to his stance on maintaining ties with America and called for peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians.
Most northern governors have yet to comment, and attempts to reach their spokespeople were unsuccessful.
The bill still requires passage by the full U.S. Congress and presidential approval. If enacted, it would be the first formal U.S. sanctions move targeting Nigerian officials over religious freedom issues.
