Photo: VOMC
Nearly 50 Nigerian Christians were killed in a series of attacks that took place during the week of Christmas. On Sunday, December 22nd, believers in a village located within Nigeria's Plateau State had gathered to celebrate the season by singing carols. As they were leaving, a group of armed Fulani militants opened fire, killing 14 of the attending Christians, including a pregnant woman and a one-year-old child.
In a series of separate attacks, Christmas Day became a nightmare for five other Christian communities in the state of Benue. Invaders entered the villages of Anwase, Ubutu, Tse Azege, Nyiev-ya and Ityuluv, setting fire to homes and killing approximately 33 people. In the wake of the devastating raids, which resulted in several deaths and the destruction of many properties, the members of these communities have been left reeling. One resident from Anwase stated that the assault "left the community in shock and mourning."
These attacks are reminiscent of the violence that took place in Plateau State during the 2023 Christmas season, resulting in the fatalities of more than 140 citizens. For further reports concerning the suffering of our Christian family in Nigeria, visit VOMC's country profile.
- Pray for greatly needed peace, comfort and encouragement on behalf of all those who are mourning the loss of their loved ones as a result of these brutal attacks.
- Ask the Lord to also minister to believers otherwise affected by the violent raids – meeting the spiritual, practical, physical and emotional needs of those who were injured, or have lost their homes, properties and/or livelihoods.
- May Nigeria's governmental forces take increased action against the horrific destruction caused by militant groups, bringing an end to the reign of indiscriminate terror across large areas of the nation.
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