In a disturbing escalation of violence, Islamic Fulani extremists have perpetrated a series of deadly assaults on Christian communities across North Central Nigeria in the past week. Particularly hard-hit are Benue and Plateau states, where the militants have not only targeted civilians but also claimed the life of a prominent peace advocate among the Fulani.
Targeting of Christian Farmers in Benue State
On Sunday, July 14, suspected Fulani extremists launched a brutal attack on Benue communities, resulting in the deaths of 13 Christian farmers. The village of Egwuma in Agatu bore the brunt with 12 fatalities, while another person lost their life in Gwer West County. Reports indicate one displaced person was injured, and five others remain missing.
Godwin Edoh, representative of the Agatu state constituency, condemned the ongoing violence, contradicting claims of restored peace and the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Jacob Terna, a former manager of IDP camps, reported further attacks on displaced individuals, resulting in additional casualties and missing persons. State police confirmed five deaths in Agatu but were unaware of the incident in Agagbe, Gwer West.
“International Christian Concern (ICC) has urged Nigerian authorities to thoroughly investigate and address these security concerns to safeguard affected Christian communities,” emphasized a spokesperson for the organization. “Continuous support for IDPs and affected individuals remains critical.”
Assassination of a Peace Advocate in Plateau State
Tragically underscoring the dangers faced by advocates of peace, Yakubu Muhammad, a prominent member of the Peace Implementation Committee of Irigwe/Fulani-Bassa County, was assassinated on Thursday, July 18, in Jebbu-Bassa. Muhammad, also a leader within the Fulani Youth, had been actively collaborating with security officials and Christian leaders to forestall attacks on Christian communities in Bassa County, Plateau state.
The murder, suspected to be the work of Islamic Fulani extremists, has sparked widespread concern about the safety of peace advocates across Irigwe/Fulani-Bassa and beyond.
Kidnappings in Southern Kaduna
In Southern Kaduna, in addition to attacks by Islamic Fulani extremists, bandits have been targeting Christians for ransom, leading to a wave of abductions. Recently, 57 Christians were kidnapped, and tragically, 11 lost their lives when ransom demands were not met. These incidents have severely disrupted community life, particularly affecting farming and church activities.
“International Christian Concern (ICC) calls upon the Kaduna state government to conduct a thorough investigation into these abductions and ensure justice for the victims,” urged an ICC spokesperson. “Providing psychological support for affected individuals and their families is also of utmost importance.”
These recent events underscore the precarious situation facing Christian communities in Nigeria, where targeted violence continues to threaten lives and livelihoods. The urgent calls for security measures and support for affected populations remain paramount as the country grapples with this escalating crisis.