NIGERIA: Violence Against Christians Draws International Attention

Sources: Voice of the Martys Canada, Morning Star News, International Christian Concern, Christian Daily International

Violence against Christians in Nigeria continues to spread, even as international attention to the crisis grows. Recently, the United States designated Nigeria as a "a country of particular concern" due to the ongoing religious persecution, threatening military intervention if the situation does not change. In response to the recent global attention, the Nigerian government insists that its laws safeguard religious freedom and that efforts are underway to protect citizens of all faiths.

One of the greatest challenges facing Nigerian authorities is that much of the recent violence is fuelled by a mix of cultural, economic and religious factors. As Fulani herdsmen seek to expand their grazing areas, they often perpetrate violence against those who are already living on the land. When some members of this nomadic group adopt militant Islamic ideologies, combining their economic intentions with a desire to establish an Islamic state, religious persecution results.

Recent attacks by Fulani assailants give only a few examples of the ongoing violence against Christian-minority communities. In addition to the destruction of homes, businesses and churches, dozens of Believers have been killed or kidnapped within the past few weeks alone.

On 28 October, 10 Christians, including a pastor, were killed in the Kauru area of Kaduna State and 20 others were kidnapped. Only a few days later, two more villages in Plateau State came under siege. Shortly after midnight, attackers entered Kwi and began killing their victims indiscriminately, taking the lives of 12 Believers by daybreak. A few hours later, a second assault took place in Damakasuwa, killing five more.

On 3 November, at least 10 additional Christians, including Pastor Simon Nbach, were killed in the village of Anwule Oglewu, Benue State; while three days later, two Believers were killed in Nasarawa State and two others in Plateau State.

• Pray for further decisive action to be taken by the Nigerian authorities, specifically requesting that the government would strengthen its security measures and ultimately pursue lasting peace across the nation.

• Remember the grieving families whose loved ones have been tragically killed in the attacks, as well as all those whose homes, communities and livelihoods have been destroyed. In addition to praying for their healing and restoration, ask the Lord to provide them greatly needed strength, practical provisions and hope as they recover from such unimaginable loss.

• Intercede on behalf of our Christian brothers and sisters who have been kidnapped, asking God to divinely protect them while working out their safe release.