Photo: Morning Star News
Nigeria is one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a Christian. One estimate states that, on average, every two hours there is a Christian in Nigeria who dies. The ongoing brutality comes from numerous directions, and news reports only reflect a small portion of the violent incidents that take place – whether they involve fatalities, abductions or the destruction of properties. In many cases, multiple atrocities take place during a terrorist attack.
In addition to the physical effects of the violence, the psychological impacts on communities are extreme. Survivors often suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and anxiety. Furthermore, the constant threat of attacks makes it very difficult for communities to rebuild and thrive.
In one recent incident, Islamic Fulani militants ambushed the village of Maiyanga in Plateau State on July 7th. Three Christians had been killed in the raid and two others were injured. During a previous attack in Plateau State that took place on June 2nd, Pastor Dauda Dalyop from the hamlet of Ari Songo was killed alongside his wife Chummy Dauda, in addition to three other slain victims: Chwe Ajuhs, Joshua Kusa and Rikwe Doro.
For one denomination, continued attacks have forced 70 churches to close in northeastern Nigeria. Pastor Amos Mohzo, who serves as president for the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), reported: "All our worship church buildings in these communities were burned down by terrorists. Christians are still living in camps outside their communities." According to Pastor Amos, while the church desires to continue reaching out to others with the Gospel message, the ongoing attacks are preventing their evangelistic activities. "How can we deliberately jeopardize and endanger the lives of those called to ministry when we know that they'll become targets of terrorist attacks?"
For Christians in Nigeria who suffer kidnappings, such attacks cause severe trauma and heartache to the victims, as well as those who love them. In March 2023, Pastor Paul Musa and his wife were kidnapped by Boko Haram terrorists. Often, the militants behind these attacks make exorbitant ransom demands which are impossible to pay. Pastor Amos recently visited the children of the kidnapped couple, who pled on behalf of their parents. "The children are always crying...always in tears for their parents. It pains my heart to see these children in this way," he lamented.
In the midst of the pain, there are also occasions for joy. On July 7th, a Roman Catholic priest, Mikah Suleiman, was safely released from captivity. No details have been announced concerning the identities of his kidnappers nor the terms for his release. In a video-recorded message released shortly after Father Mikah's homecoming, the priest said: "I want to thank you for your prayers and support towards my rescue. By the grace of God, I'm out from the hands of the bandits."
With the ongoing trauma experienced by our Nigerian family in Christ – along with the constant risk of further attacks – church leaders in the country are seeking ways to effectively help their congregations. Recently, VOMC's Greg Musselman travelled to Nigeria, along with one of our credible ministry partners, to present the Theology of Persecution and Discipleship course to pastors in affected areas. You may view the June 2024 Closer to the Fire podcast episode to hear about this training opportunity at this page. To read more about the violence committed against Christians in Nigeria, and to access other informative video reports, see our country profile.
Please prayerfully uphold all those who have been affected by the ongoing violence in Nigeria. For those mourning the loss of their loved ones, may God's Spirit bring greatly needed comfort. For those who have been kidnapped, pray that they will be safely released from captivity. In the meantime, may the captives and their anxious family members be filled with God's peace which is beyond all comprehension (Philippians 4:7). Also intercede for the many followers of Jesus who have lost their homes, businesses and churches in the destruction. Despite the violence, may the Gospel message of eternal life spread throughout communities across Nigeria, bringing peace, hope and harmony to this beleaguered nation.
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