United States Senator Ted Cruz has renewed his campaign to introduce a law targeting Nigeria's Sharia and blasphemy-related judicial systems, following former President Donald Trump's decision to redesignate Nigeria as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC) for alleged religious persecution. The move has sparked wide debate among policy observers and faith communities about foreign interference in domestic legal systems.

In a statement released on his official platform, Senator Cruz commended Trump's decision, describing it as "a decisive step toward protecting Christians in Nigeria." He highlighted his proposed bill as a framework to sanction and hold accountable Nigerian authorities who support or enforce Sharia-based penalties and blasphemy rulings. The legislation, he said, would institutionalize the U.S. government's commitment to "upholding global religious freedom."

Cruz emphasized that the measure is intended to pressure Nigerian officials to address violence and discrimination allegedly linked to religion. He added that continued reports of persecution against Christians necessitate stronger U.S. action to "change the behavior" of Nigerian authorities who ignore such issues. Critics, however, argue that the initiative risks undermining Nigeria's constitutional sovereignty and its right to operate a dual legal system that accommodates both common and Sharia law.

Former President Donald Trump, through his Truth Social account, justified the policy by claiming that "Christianity faces an existential threat in Nigeria," referencing attacks attributed to extremist groups. Trump disclosed plans for congressional investigations into the alleged killings, reaffirming America's readiness to act in defense of global Christian populations.

In response, Nigerian officials have consistently dismissed allegations of state-sponsored persecution, labeling them politically motivated and inaccurate. They argue that religious conflicts in Nigeria are complex, often driven by local grievances rather than official endorsement.

Observers note that the Sharia debate remains a delicate national issue, requiring balanced dialogue between religious freedom, state authority, and cultural autonomy.

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