When the Nigerian presidential elections took place in February of this year, many human rights experts expressed concerns that it would lead to increased violence due to religious divides in the country. However, VOMC's partnering agency, Release International, recently reported that apparent improvements to the nation's security situation have been made during the past year. In fact, according to the latest statistical information, incidents of violence and kidnappings have declined in comparison to those that occurred during the first half of the previous year.
While the numbers may have improved, the security situation for Christians in many areas of Nigeria remains tenuous. Attacks continue to take place across the country, which often lead to murders and kidnappings. On November 11th, Pastor David Musa was kidnapped from his farm in the Obajana area of Kogi State. The terrorists initially demanded 20 million naira (over $33,000 CAD) for his release.
As the members of his church were unable to raise that amount, the kidnappers agreed to accept one million naira, provided that other items such as poultry, alcohol and cell phone cards were included in the deal. In keeping with the renegotiation arrangements, two church members met with the abductors to exchange the ransom for Pastor David. Sadly, the transaction abruptly concluded when the armed men called the pastor to come back. For, as he turned to walk towards them, they shot and killed him.
In another case, Pastor Joshua Amako Maraya was killed, and his wife kidnapped, when their home in Damakasuwa, Kaduna State, was raided on the night of November 17th. Church members are calling for prayer on behalf of the surviving members of the family, including the release of the pastor's wife. In remembrance of the slain church leader, one member of the congregation recounts the words that Pastor Joshua had preached prior to his abduction. "The Rev. Maraya always encouraged us to preach the Gospel with courage and without reservation. He said: 'The message of the Gospel is for Jesus, so don't fail to preach it because of fear. Preach it, whether they like it or not.'"
Militants from various groups continue to cause havoc in Nigeria, and Christians have frequently been a primary target. For more details and reports addressing the violence perpetrated against followers of Jesus this West African nation, go to our country report.
Please prayerfully uphold the grieving families and congregation members of the two recently slain pastors, asking the Lord to minister greatly needed peace and comfort to every one of them during this difficult time of loss. Also continue to remember our other persecuted Nigerian brothers and sisters in Christ who are likewise in need of His empowerment so they can persevere in their faith with renewed strength, seizing every divinely appointed opportunity to share the Gospel message with those in need around them. Last, but not least, pray that the apparent reduction in violence would continue, leading to greater security for all Nigerians.
Population
