Christian Killings: Ted Cruz Says Nigeria Using PR Campaign to Deflect US Criticism

US Senator Ted Cruz has alleged that the Nigerian government is relying on public relations lobbying instead of addressing international concerns over the killings of Christians and worsening insecurity in the country.

The Republican lawmaker criticised the Federal Government’s decision to hire DCI Group, a US lobbying and public affairs firm, under a reported $9 million contract, arguing that the move was designed to influence perceptions in Washington rather than tackle the root causes of violence.

According to records filed with the US Department of Justice, the contract was facilitated by Kaduna-based Aster Legal on behalf of the Office of the National Security Adviser.

In a post on X, Cruz defended his proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, which seeks to sanction Nigerian officials accused of failing to protect religious minorities.

He stated: “Nigerian officials have created an environment that facilitates mass violence against Christians and religious minorities by imposing blasphemy and Sharia laws and looking the other way at jihadist atrocities.”

He further said: “Instead of responding to American concerns, Nigerian officials waged a public relations campaign against critics. They were confident in that campaign and in their ability to continue the status quo, and I am heartened that the House has just definitively proven them wrong.”

Cruz’s comments came after the US House of Representatives approved an amendment proposing that all US assistance to Nigeria be withheld until the country demonstrates effective action against violence.

Separately, former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary Timi Frank alleged that the Presidency was overstating the significance of a reported letter from US President Donald Trump.

Frank argued that the correspondence merely acknowledged security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States and did not amount to political support for President Tinubu.

“The letter only commended Nigeria for partnering with the US in addressing insecurity. It was not an endorsement of President Tinubu’s leadership, his economic policies or his administration,” he said.

Frank also questioned the authenticity and timing of the reported letter while criticising the government’s reported spending on foreign lobbying efforts.

He concluded: “Ultimately, credibility and integrity cannot be conferred by a letter, a diplomatic exchange or a public relations campaign. They are earned through transparent leadership, accountability, respect for democratic institutions and faithful service to the people.”

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