The Government of Nigeria Versus Senator Ted Cruz
The security crisis in Nigeria is complex and has a significant religious dimension.
Key Issues
- Senator Cruz's claim that some Nigerian officials are in league with Boko Haram jihadists, making the Nigerian government indirectly responsible for the "mass murder" of Nigerian Christians.
- The characterization of the current security situation in the country, with debate over whether an insurgency can be described as religious when its victims include Christians, Muslims, and others.
Put differently, if Boko Haram has it in for Christians only, why kill Muslims as well?
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Boko Haram's victims are not limited to Christians, but also include Muslims and people of other faiths.
Author's summary: The Nigerian government and Senator Cruz are at odds over Boko Haram's ties.
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Council on Foreign Relations — 2025-10-13