NIGERIA: FRESH ATTACK ON CHRISTIAN FARMING COMMUNITY

At least 20 people have been killed following an attack on a predominantly Christian farming community in Plateau State, Nigeria.  

This latest deadly incident happened in the early hours of Sunday (21 June), when a group of armed men targeted the Kawel community in Bokkos Local Government Area (LGA), a region that’s experienced many attacks in recent years. The group later clashed with police before fleeing. It’s believed that 18 people were killed at the scene. Three were taken to hospital – two later died and the other, a 14-year-old, is still being treated. 

Among the victims are Rev. Markus Nyam, who was shot dead outside a church building, and the parents and two sons of one family, leaving one son alive. A pregnant woman and medical staff from a local clinic also died.  

According to two locals, the attack happened at 2am, but police only arrived after daylight, reinforcing concerns over the inadequate protection of Christians in certain parts of Nigeria. Bishop Ayuba Matawal, a church leader in Bokkos, said security forces have a nearby presence, but their late arrival left the community defenceless. 

Further security deployments are now said to be in place in the area following the incident.    

Raise your voice 

One way you can play your part is by signing the Arise Africa petition, which calls for protection, justice and restoration for Christians and other vulnerable individuals in sub-Saharan Africa. More than 615,000 people worldwide have already added their voice, and the aim is hit one million, before sharing it with the African Union, United Nations, EU and local governments around the world in the autumn. If you’ve yet to, please add your voice, and encourage your family, friends and church to do the same. Thank you. 

*Names changed for security reasons