The aftermath of a recent attack by Fulani herdsmen.
World Watch Monitor
On the evening of November 13th, Fulani herdsmen besieged and attacked five villages located within the Kauru Local Government Area in the predominantly Christian Kaduna State. Armed with guns, knives, machetes and explosives, the Muslim militants killed 45 civilians -- mostly women, children and elderly residents -- while wounding dozens more and displacing thousands. Numerous vehicles and over 120 houses (including eight house-churches) were torched.
It is reported that attacks in northern Nigeria have accelerated in recent months, marked by greater sophistication in training and arms. Frustrated by the endless carnage, Christian leaders have reiterated the call for more security, including the establishment of a military base in Southern Kaduna.
Referencing previous attacks in the area, Rev. Dauda Samson of the Evangelical Church Winning All states: "Two churches were destroyed at Angwan Ali and Sabon Gari villages...all 22 Christians killed by the herdsmen (in these attacks) were members of local church congregations in area villages."
National chairman of the Kaninkon Development Association, Waje Goska Williams, concludes by saying, "We are under unprovoked and sustained attacks by people...working closely with the local Fulani (whom) we have lived with for many years."
More information on the serious concerns facing believers in northern Nigeria, as well as previous reports and video documentaries, can be found at our Nigeria Country Report.
Pray that the Lord will draw especially near to the persecuted Christians in Southern Kaduna -- including those who've been displaced -- as they struggle with tragic loss, fear, doubt and despair; and against the temptation to hate or retaliate against the perpetrators of the attacks. May they be encouraged to lift their heads and look to Jesus for their comfort, healing, justice and security. May His divine grace strengthen them in their time of tremendous need. Also pray for President Muhammadu Buhari and Kaduna Governor Nasir el-Rufai, asking God to help them in their endeavours to strengthen security in Christian regions and crack down on the illegal activities of the Fulani.
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