Senator Shehu Sani Reacts As US Plans To Sanction Musa Kwankwaso Over Religious Freedom Violation

A bill currently under consideration in the United States Congress could, if passed, result in a visa ban and potential asset freezes affecting Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

According to Daily Trust, Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State and ex-defence minister, has been accused by certain U.S. lawmakers of actions that allegedly undermine religious freedom. Several ethnic and communal organisations in Nigeria have also been named in connection with the proposed measures. These include Fulani nomadic militias, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore.

The legislation is being sponsored by five U.S. Congressmen, including Riley Moore, who last year publicly accused Nigeria of perpetrating acts of violence against Christians—a claim later echoed by then-President Donald Trump, who reportedly warned of a potential military response.

Other lawmakers backing the bill include Chris Smith, Brian Mast, Mario Diaz-Balart, and Bill Huizenga. The proposed measure has been titled the “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026” and seeks to hold individuals and groups accountable for alleged violations of religious liberty, with potential consequences including restrictions on travel to the United States and the freezing of assets.

However, while he was reacting to the development on his verified X handle, Senator Shehu Sani said, “Any group that picks up arms to kill or kidnap innocent people under any guise is deserving of being designated as a terrorist group. But the US Lawmakers need to do deeper and broader research to get their facts right.

“Senator Kwankwaso has never been an extremist who condoned, supported or encouraged any act of religious persecution, violence or discrimination. His conduct while in office can be verified.

“It should also be noted that in some cases, the leadership of Miyetti Allah and Kautal Hore are themselves targets of Bandits and terrorists.

“A bill that would have political, historical and global significance must be a product of meticulous, intelligent and comprehensive research.”

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