Photo: Flickr / SIM USA (cc)
In areas throughout Nigeria, violence has continued relentlessly, disproportionately affecting the Christian population. Those responsible for the brutality are generally members of Islamic terrorist groups such as Boko Haram or the nomadic Fulani herdsmen. While attacks perpetrated by the herdsmen often stem from conflicts over their free-ranging cattle, the accompanying violence also commonly involves a religious element, as militant members of the predominantly Muslim group specifically target Christians and churches. Within the past month, multiple attacks have occurred in at least four different Nigerian states. (For previously published reports on the suffering of Nigeria's Christians, go to our country report.)
Kaduna State
Pastor Manasseh Ibrahim, who led a church in the Kurebe area of Kaduna State, was ambushed and killed on April 23rd as he was travelling to a church conference. Although the motive and identities of the perpetrators remain unknown, it is believed that the pastor was attacked by bandits.
In a separate incident, the village of Ambe was raided around midnight on May 5th by a large number of Fulani herdsmen armed with guns and machetes. During the attack, six Christian villagers were killed and eight others wounded. According to a police spokesperson, one of the assailants was apprehended by the villagers, and a police investigation is underway.
Plateau State
In the early morning of April 19th, militant Fulani herdsmen attacked the farming community of Tilengpan Pushit while the residents were sleeping. During the raid, a total of 12 people were killed. According to a survivor, most of the victims were women and children.
The state's governor, Caleb Mutfwang, expressed his "heartfelt condolences" to all those who have been affected by the attack. He also appealed to Christians to remain steadfast, stating that his government will continue to collaborate with security forces to better protect vulnerable communities.
Benue State
At least 28 Christians were killed in Benue State between April 20th and April 22nd. Dozens of surviving victims have been treated for injuries sustained during the violence, and several other believers were reportedly kidnapped. The attacks happened in three villages located within the Gwer West area of the state.
In response to the recent wave of attacks, protestors blocked a major roadway on April 23rd to protest the inaction of the government in addressing the issues leading up to the violence. One of their demands includes the need for enforced legislation to prohibit open grazing, a practice that has resulted in many of the attacks perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen.
Enugu State
At least six Christians were killed in the southeastern Nigerian state of Enugu on April 28th. The slain victims, who included children, were from the village of Ugwujoro Nimbo. As a result of the incident, seven other believers were treated for injuries caused by machete cuts.
While the state governor has assured local villagers that those responsible for the attacks will be pursued and captured, residents in the area remain fearful of further violence. According to a community leader, villagers have been leaving their homes each evening and staying in safer locations to avoid possible repeat of attacks.
Please prayerfully remember all the innocent Nigerians who have been affected by these recent attacks, including survivors suffering from physical and emotional wounds, family members mourning the loss of their loved ones, and villagers living in dread of other similar incidents possibly occurring. May God minister complete healing to each of these traumatized believers – comforting their grieving hearts and providing them His peace, strength and protection. Further, pray that the country's governing authorities will actively work to resolve the various issues associated with this violence, and that those responsible for committing such horrific crimes would be brought to justice.
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