US Issues Stern Warning To Religious Extremists: “Stay Away From America

According to Ireporter Online, the United States Government has announced the strict enforcement of new visa restrictions targeting individuals involved in violations of religious freedom, warning that anyone found to have participated in religious persecution will be denied entry into the country.

The U.S. Principal Advisor for Global Religious Freedom, Mark Walker, disclosed this in a post on X, noting that the policy follows an earlier announcement by the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, outlining measures to restrict visas for individuals who direct, support, finance, or carry out acts of religious persecution.

Walker stated that the policy has already begun implementation, adding that offenders will face heightened scrutiny and possible visa denial. He emphasized that individuals involved in persecution are not welcome in the United States, describing the move as part of efforts to enhance national security and protect religious freedom globally.

The policy, grounded in Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act, also allows authorities to extend restrictions to immediate family members of affected individuals where necessary.

He further referenced a statement from the U.S. State Department indicating that the measure is aimed at responding to widespread violence and killings linked to religious tensions in several countries, including Nigeria. The statement noted that the restrictions could apply to individuals or governments found responsible for violations of religious freedom.

Meanwhile, Nigeria has been listed among countries of concern in recent U.S. security and travel advisories. The U.S. Mission in Nigeria recently suspended visa appointment services at its Abuja embassy following the authorization of non-essential staff departures due to worsening security conditions. Visa services, however, remain operational at the U.S. Consulate in Lagos for selected categories.

The advisory maintained that Nigeria remains under heightened travel caution due to insecurity, including terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime, and civil unrest.