Photo: Voice of America
As Nigerians were celebrating their national Democracy Day on May 29th, gunmen opened fire on the Maro Junction Market which happens to be located within a predominantly Christian community of Kaduna State. Reports state that as many as 12 people were killed and 20 others injured.
While details surrounding the incident are still emerging, reports indicate that the attackers arrived at the busy market and fired indiscriminately at the traders and shoppers. No kidnappings were reported to have occurred during this recent attack, and the assailants fled the scene before the police had arrived. The wounded victims were taken to hospitals in Kachia for treatment.
While the motive behind this attack is not certain, the incident is believed to be part of an ongoing campaign by Islamic militants to drive Christians out of the area. A spokesperson for International Christian Concern commented, "The terrorists' quest is to decrease the population of Christian communities and render them deserted, isolated and desolated." This is the second time that the market in this predominantly Christian town has been the target of violence. For more information on the persecution against followers of Jesus in Nigeria, and/or to view related videotaped reports, go to our country report.
Pray for the full recovery of the many community members who were physically injured in this most recent violent attack. Additionally, pray for the emotional healing of all the bystanders who have been traumatized by the incident, asking that they too will remain strong in their faith. For those mourning the loss of their loved ones, may God's comfort and peace be tangibly experienced through the indwelling presence of His Holy Spirit. Continue to pray for the cessation of such violence in Nigeria and that, in the interim, the authorities would actively work to protect the country's vulnerable Christian communities.
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