The International Human Rights Commission, Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT Global), Nigeria Chapter, has expressed concern over aspects of the proposed “Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026,” currently before the United States Congress.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its Country Director, Ambassador Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the organisation acknowledged the global importance of protecting freedom of religion and ensuring accountability for violence against civilians.
However, it warned that certain elements of the proposed legislation could unintentionally create division, stigmatization, and instability in Nigeria if not handled with fairness and due process.
The Commission noted that Nigeria’s security challenges are complex and deeply rooted in socio-economic, political, and environmental factors, stressing that such issues require balanced, evidence-based, and non-discriminatory approaches.
Citing provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), the IHRC-RFT emphasized the need to uphold Articles 2, 7, and 10, which relate to non-discrimination, equality before the law, and the right to a fair hearing.
It maintained that accountability efforts must focus on proven individual responsibility rather than targeting entire communities or organizations without a clear distinction.
The organisation cautioned against what it described as the broad labeling of groups whose membership may include law-abiding and peace-loving citizens, warning that collective attribution of guilt could deepen mistrust, fuel radicalization, and widen existing social divides.
It also expressed concern that isolating a single political figure without a comprehensive and transparent evaluation of all relevant actors could generate political tension and unnecessary controversy within Nigeria’s democratic space.
According to the Commission, sustainable peace cannot be achieved solely through external sanctions. It called instead for strengthening domestic justice systems, addressing the root causes of conflict, ensuring impartial investigations, and promoting inclusive national dialogue.
The IHRC-RFT Nigeria Chapter reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, accountability, and the protection of the fundamental rights of all Nigerians without prejudice.
“If credible evidence establishes individual criminal responsibility, such individuals should be held accountable under the rule of law.
“However, collective stigmatization without due process undermines justice and long-term stability,” the statement read.
