In a recent attack in Yelewata, Nigeria, up to 200 Christians were killed by Fulani militants. The attackers targeted displaced Christians, setting homes ablaze and chanting 'Allahu Akbar.' The attack, considered one of the worst in the region, has drawn condemnation from local leaders and international organizations. Pope Leo XIV expressed grief and called for justice, as the incident highlights the ongoing violence faced by Christians in Nigeria. Government officials have confirmed a lower death toll, although Amnesty International and other sources claim the number is much higher.
5 days ago
Reports indicate a massacre in Yelewata, Benue State, Nigeria, on June 13, 2025, where up to 200 Christians were killed 1 2 3 6. The victims were primarily internally displaced persons (IDPs) seeking shelter in the area 1 2 5. The attack has been described as the "deadliest assault on the region in recent memory" 1 and the "worst killing spree" to date 2 3.
The attackers, identified as Islamist Fulani militants or herdsmen, stormed the town, chanting "Allahu Akbar" 1 2. They targeted buildings where families were sleeping, setting them ablaze and attacking fleeing residents with machetes 2 3. The militants first attempted to breach St. Joseph’s Church, where approximately 700 IDPs were sheltered, but were repelled by police 1 2 3. They then moved to nearby market shelters housing over 500 people, using fuel to ignite entrances and trap residents 1 2 3. The coordinated assault involved militants entering from multiple directions under the cover of heavy rain 1 2 3.
Initial reports estimated around 100 deaths 1 2 3. However, investigations by the Diocese of Makurdi’s Foundation for Justice, Development, and Peace (FJDP) and other sources raised the toll to nearly 200 1 2 3. Tersoo Kula, a spokesman for the state governor’s office, confirmed a lower death toll of 45 6. Amnesty International stated that at least 100 people were killed 6. The discrepancies in the reported death tolls highlight the difficulty in accurately assessing the full extent of the casualties 6.
Several sources suggest the attack is part of a broader pattern of religious persecution against Christians in Nigeria 2 3 5 6. Some organizations, like Save the Persecuted Christians, have labeled the violence as "genocide" 5. Bishop Anagbe's testimony before U.S. and U.K. parliaments highlighted the "egregious" violations of human rights in Nigeria, describing it as "one of the most dangerous and insecure places for Christians" 5 6.
Pope Leo XIV expressed his grief and prayed for the victims, particularly the "rural Christian communities of Benue State who have been relentless victims of violence" 1 2 3. Amnesty International Nigeria called on authorities to end the bloodshed and bring perpetrators to justice 5. The Nigerian bishops' conference condemned the "barbaric massacre" and the "utter breakdown of security in our land" 5.
Clergy members and advocacy groups have criticized the Nigerian government and security forces for their slow response and alleged inaction 1 2 6. Questions have been raised about why law enforcement failed to arrive on the scene until the next morning 2 3. Some suggest the government's inaction is deliberate, with an agenda to Islamize Nigeria, particularly during the presidency of Muhammadu Buhari 6.
The Yelewata massacre is part of an escalating pattern of violence targeting Christian communities in Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt region 1 2 5 6. Fulani herdsmen and other groups have been implicated in numerous attacks, resulting in thousands of deaths and displacements 2 5 6. Despite the ongoing persecution, the Catholic Church in Nigeria continues to grow, with a significant number of confirmations and Mass attendance reported 5.
The Church addresses violence against Christians and religious freedom.
The Catholic Church addresses violence against Christians and emphasizes the importance of religious freedom as a fundamental human right.
In summary, the Catholic Church views religious freedom as a fundamental and inalienable right that is essential for human dignity and the well-being of society. It actively promotes this freedom and works towards justice, peace, and reconciliation, especially in areas affected by violence and persecution.