Nigeria, Nov. 6 -- A new bill, which seeks to impose sanctions and other restrictions on individuals and bodies allegedly responsible for violating religious freedom in Nigeria, has been introduced to the US Congress, adding a new dimension to the recent frosty relationship between Nigeria and the United States.

The bill identifies Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) and Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore as entities to be sanctioned. Both organisations have been accused by some Nigerians in the past of masterminding some attacks by armed herders on rural communities. However, they have denied such allegations and instead said their members, who are cattle herders, were being attacked in different states.

The new US bil...