APC, NNPP React as US Proposes Visa Ban, Asset Seizure on Kwankwaso, Others
- US lawmakers propose visa bans for Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso over alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria
- The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) defend Kwankwaso, condemning proposed sanctions as unjust and lacking due process
- The APC and NNPP leaders question the fairness of targeting Kwankwaso while other governors remain unaccused
Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada has over 8 years of experience covering metro, government policy, and international issues
FCT, Abuja - The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) have Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, as United States lawmakers recommended proposed visa bans and freezing of assets over alleged violations of religious freedoms in Nigeria.
Legit.ng reports that the US House of Representatives introduced the bill, titled ‘The Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act of 2026.’
The new bill also affected the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and the Miyetti Allah Kautal H0re.
The APC and NNPP rejected the proposed visa bans and asset freezes recommended by United States lawmakers against Kwankwaso,
According to the bill, visa bans and asset freezes are recommended under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act against individuals and entities accused of involvement in religious freedom abuses.
The APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said the allegations alone could not justify hindering Kwankwaso’s freedom of movement without a fair hearing and due process.
Ibrahim cautioned the United States government against taking action solely based on allegations.
“They cannot, on the strength of an allegation alone, go ahead to suggest a ban or restriction on the freedom of movement of an individual without substantiating it, without subjecting him to a fair hearing and trial.
“So I think that is a wrong move. It infringes on his right to a fair hearing, and I don’t support that.”
The National Publicity Secretary of the party, Ladipo Johnson, dismissed any suggestions that he was responsible for religious freedom violations.
Ladipo expressed shock over the inclusion of Kwankwaso in the proposed sanctions list.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, he said:
“But is this enough to accuse Kwankwaso of severe religious freedom violations? Why were the other state governors who introduced Sharia in their states not accused as well? Is Rep Moore being fair or selective?
Buhari's ex-aide backs Kwankwaso over US sanctions
Recall that US lawmakers proposed sanctions on Kwankwaso and MACBAN for alleged religious freedom violations in Nigeria.
Bashir Ahmad defended Kwankwaso against accusations, citing his anti-terrorism stance during various political roles.
The US is deploying its military to Nigeria amidst concerns over Christian persecution and a security partnership with the federal government of the West African nation.
US Congressman accuses Kwankwaso of Sharia Law.
Legit.ng earlier reported that US Rep. Riley M. Moore accused Kwankwaso of enabling religious persecution through Sharia law.
The accusation followed Kwankwaso’s response to President Donald Trump’s warning about the alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria.
The Nigerian senator called for unity and diplomatic engagement, while Moore challenged his record on blasphemy laws in the country.
Source: Legit.ng
