In a tragic turn of events during the Christmas week, 46 lives were lost in attacks across Nigeria and the DRC. Fulani militants ambushed Christian communities in Nigeria’s Benue State, leading to multiple fatalities, including 11 individuals on Christmas Day. In the DRC, ADF militants killed 21 people, raising alarms about the continued plight of Christians in these regions. Calls for prayer and international support for these communities grow as violence escalates.
In the week preceding Christmas, and on Christmas Day itself, 46 individuals lost their lives in a series of attacks across Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This festive season has turned tragic for many communities in sub-Saharan Africa, which traditionally celebrate the birth of Christ. In Nigeria, Fulani militants targeted Christian communities in the Benue State, with survivors recounting harrowing tales of violence upon their return from Christmas services.
On Christmas morning, assailants ambushed families preparing meals in their homes, leading to the death of 11 Christians. “They went to church, and after returning home from the service… a combined team of armed herdsmen and Jukum militia started attacking from five different places,” recounted survivor Solomon Amande to Vanguard News. This attack reflects a broader pattern of violence that disproportionately impacts Christian farmers in rural areas.
Earlier in the week, on December 22, another attack in the Gidan Ado community of Plateau State resulted in the deaths of 14 people, with victims ranging in age from one to 52 years old. Open Doors representative Jo Newhouse expressed grave concern for the continued safety of these vulnerable Christian communities, urging Nigerian security forces to enhance protective measures.
Simultaneously, in the DRC, suspected ADF rebels murdered 21 individuals in the North Kivu province. Reports indicated that 18 civilians were slain in a village assault on December 21-22, followed by the discovery of three more bodies on Christmas Day. While not all victims are confirmed as Christians, the ADF’s history of targeting Christian believers suggests a calculated assault in line with the group’s extremist agenda.
Calls for international support echo throughout Christian leadership in sub-Saharan Africa, emphasizing a united front against violent persecution. The global church is encouraged to stand with affected communities by signing the Arise Africa petition, advocating for justice and protection for these marginalized believers.
During the Christmas season, a traditionally joyous time for Christians, many communities in Nigeria and the DRC experienced horrific violence and loss. In Nigeria, Fulani militants have been known to target Christian farmers, particularly in states like Benue and Plateau, where Christians face persistent threats. Similarly, in the DRC, the ADF, an extremist group striving to establish a caliphate, has inflicted significant harm on Christian communities. The timing of these attacks around Christmas not only amplifies their impact but also symbolizes the ongoing struggles faced by believers in the region. Numerous organizations and representatives advocate for increased awareness and protection of Christian communities vulnerable to such violent acts, highlighting the urgent need for global attention and action.
The attacks that occurred during the Christmas season in Nigeria and the DRC underscore the perilous situation faced by Christian communities in sub-Saharan Africa. With 46 casualties reported from coordinated assaults, the fragility of security for these faith-based groups is a pressing concern. The international community is called upon to stand in solidarity with these vulnerable populations, to champion justice and protection against the rising tide of extremist violence. The culmination of these events serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by believers who seek to practice their faith freely and safely.
Original Source: www.opendoorsuk.org
