Nigeria: Fresh Islamist Attacks on Christians in Benue State.

Fulani Islamist militants have attacked Christians once again, this time in Benue State.  Four people were reportedly killed, including two soldiers, in the attacks targeting the predominantly Christian communities. Attacks against Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt garnered worldwide attention recently after Islamists murdered hundreds during the Christmas holiday.

According to reports, the armed terrorists intentionally targeted civilian villagers. They also ambushed two soldiers stationed in the area for peacekeeping purposes. In addition to those killed, several Christians were also grievously injured. 

Sometimes described euphemistically in media reports as mere “herders,” the armed militants have escalated their attacks in recent weeks. Threats targeting the Christians in Benue had actually prompted many to flee their homes in recent days. The militants avoided the abandoned areas and chose to follow the Christians to where they were hiding. The attackers may have relied on local herdsmen who were familiar with the terrain to help them track the displaced Christians. Local officials have confirmed the attacks.

The wave of violence against Christians in Nigeria is so sweeping, that Christians around the globe can be tempted to look away. The scale and depth of the evil is just so deep. But let us resist that temptation and lean into the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Christ. Please pray fervently for the Christians in Benue State, particularly those harmed. Pray for healing and comfort. Pray that the Spirit may soften the hearts of Fulani Muslims and that the Gospel would transform their lives. Pray that those plotting still more evil would be thwarted, that they would step into their own traps.

Also take action on behalf of your spiritual family in Nigeria. Contact your local legislators and insist that pressure be applied to Nigerian authorities to counter this violence. Notify others in your small groups and churches about what is unfolding in Nigeria. You will be amazed at how many know nothing about the plight of Nigeria’s Christians. Let us weep with those who weep, and marshal prayer for our brothers and sisters in Nigeria.