The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has strongly dismissed reports claiming that a bill before the United States Congress, the Nigeria Religious Freedom and Accountability Act 2026 (HR 7457), seeks to impose targeted sanctions on its National Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

The proposed legislation reportedly names Kwankwaso alongside the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association and a Fulani ethnic militia for potential visa bans and asset freezes, citing alleged severe religious freedom violations.

In a press statement from Abuja, NNPP National Publicity Secretary Ladipo Johnson described the allegations as "contrived and unfair," asserting that Kwankwaso has no ties to religious fundamentalism and urging US lawmakers to conduct thorough investigations to verify his credibility.

The NNPP addressed specific claims, including a social media exchange in which a US lawmaker accused Kwankwaso of complicity in the deaths of Christians and referenced the introduction of Sharia law in Kano State during his tenure as governor.

The party questioned why Kwankwaso was singled out, noting that several other northern states had adopted Sharia law without facing similar accusations.

It also highlighted that the US maintains diplomatic relations with multiple countries operating under Sharia legal systems, calling into question the fairness and selectivity of the proposed sanctions.

Further defending Kwankwaso, the NNPP cited his longstanding commitment to inter-religious harmony.

The party recalled his caution against oversimplified narratives of Nigeria’s security challenges when the country was redesignated as a Country of Particular Concern over alleged religious persecution.

Kwankwaso’s tenure as Kano State governor reportedly included confronting insurgency, particularly Boko Haram, while fostering strong relationships with Christian leaders.

The party also noted his support for Christian leaders, including backing former President Olusegun Obasanjo during elections, and running with Christian Bishop Isaac Idahosa as his 2023 presidential campaign running mate, demonstrating his dedication to religious inclusivity.

The NNPP called on US lawmakers, particularly Representatives Riley Moore and Chris Smith, to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to clear Senator Kwankwaso’s name and prevent further undue embarrassment.

The party suggested the timing of the allegations was suspicious, occurring shortly after the Nigerian government reportedly engaged a US consultant.

The party also emphasized that Kwankwaso’s role as a prominent opposition leader who has frequently criticized the current administration may have influenced the targeting.

The NNPP urged that justice and fairness guide any review of the claims against its leader.