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June 2, 2025 – A wave of brutal attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt has left at least 36 people dead, with several others injured or abducted, according to reports from the Diocese of Makurdi. The violence, attributed to suspected Fulani militants, has devastated multiple villages in Benue State, prompting urgent calls for humanitarian aid and security intervention.
Coordinated Assaults on Farming Communities
The attacks, which occurred between May 24 and May 26, targeted farming settlements, including the birthplace of Makurdi’s Bishop Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe. Victims included civilians, a police officer, and a Catholic priest, Father Solomon Atongo, who was shot in the leg while returning from a memorial service for two priests killed in 2018. Two passengers traveling with him were abducted.
The most violent incident took place in Aondona, where heavily armed assailants opened fire indiscriminately, killing 20 people and forcing residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
Criticism of Security Forces
Local leaders have condemned the lack of response from security forces during the attacks. Father Oliver Ortese, Chairman of the International Advisory Board for Makurdi Diocese, questioned why military personnel stationed nearby failed to intervene, stating, “Were the soldiers asleep while these shootings were going on?”.
Humanitarian Crisis and Church Response
The Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, with support from Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), is providing emergency aid, trauma healing initiatives, and pastoral support to affected families. ACN has urged prayers for the victims and their families, as well as for the safe release of those abducted.
The ongoing violence against Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt has raised concerns about religious persecution and the growing humanitarian crisis. Church leaders continue to call for stronger government action to protect vulnerable populations and prevent further bloodshed.
For more details, visit ACN’s report and Christian Today’s coverage.
Picture by Ladd Serwat, Attacks on Christians Spike in Nigeria, acleddata 21 July 2022
