Ft Wayne Times

Republican Representative Marlin Stutzman of Indiana has spoken out about religious freedom and violence against Christians in Nigeria, according to a series of posts on October 22, 2025. Stutzman, together with Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, is advocating for increased protection for Nigerian Christians facing persecution.

In a statement to Blaze News, Stutzman said, "It is the responsibility of the United States to protect religious freedom worldwide," Stutzman told Blaze News. "Implementing Sharia law and condoning the murder of innocent people is barbaric." (October 22, 2025).

Stutzman further outlined his collaboration with Senator Cruz in another post: "Republican Rep. Marlin Stutzman of Indiana is leading the charge alongside Republican Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas to protect Nigerian Christians who are being persecuted and slain by jihadist groups." (October 22, 2025).

Senator Cruz also issued a statement on the issue: “Nigerian Christians are being targeted and executed for their faith by Islamist terrorist groups, and are being forced to submit to Sharia law and blasphemy laws across Nigeria," Cruz said in a statement. (October 22, 2025).

The issue of violence against Christians in Nigeria has drawn international concern. In recent years, various jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, have been responsible for attacks on Christian communities and churches in Nigeria. These attacks have led to thousands of deaths and displacements across the country.

The U.S. government has previously designated Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" for engaging in or tolerating severe violations of religious freedom, although this designation has changed over time as circumstances have evolved.

Stutzman's and Cruz's statements reflect ongoing efforts by some U.S. lawmakers to address religious persecution abroad and to advocate for policies aimed at protecting vulnerable populations.