JAMES LASHER - CHARISMA NEWS
In a horrific turn of events, Nigerian Christians were targeted by terrorists during their Christmas celebrations, resulting in the deaths of over 160 innocent people. The coordinated attacks, which took place on Saturday night (Dec. 23) through Monday (Dec. 25), targeted predominantly Christian areas in Plateau state, Nigeria.
The assailants, believed to be a mix of criminal elements including ethnic Fulani herders and mercenaries from Chad or Niger, carried out the attacks in several villages such as NTV, Maiyanga, Ruku, Hurum, Darwat and Dares. The victims, mostly women, children and the elderly, were preparing for Christmas programs when the terrorists struck.
Local officials confirmed the attacks and stated that at least 160 people were slain. The attacks were described as "well-coordinated" and "unacceptable" by Plateau Gov. Caleb Mutfwang. The governor vowed to strengthen security agencies to tackle the insecurity in the state.
In addition to the loss of life, hundreds of houses were destroyed, and thousands were left wounded and displaced. The Christian Daily International-Morning Star News reported that the Rev. Solomon Gushe of Baptist Church in Dares village and nine of his family members were among those killed.
"In Bokkos LGA, 221 houses were set ablaze, 27 motorcycles and eight other motor vehicles were burned, and more than 79 persons were killed," Alabo said, adding that in Barkin Ladi LGA, 17 deaths were initially recorded.
"Plateau Gov. Caleb Mutfwang on Monday (Dec. 25) said that at least 50 persons had been killed in Mangu and Bokkos counties in the prior 48 hours."
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Nigeria has been a hotbed for Christian persecution in recent years, with the country leading the world in Christians killed for their faith in 2022 with 5,014 deaths, according to the Open Doors' 2023 World Watch List report. The attacks on Christians are believed to be part of a larger effort to forcefully take over their lands and impose Islam as desertification has made it difficult for the Fulani herders to sustain their herds.
"Militants from the Fulani, Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and others conduct raids on Christian communities, killing, maiming, raping and kidnapping for ransom or sexual slavery," the WWL report details. "This year has also seen this violence spill over into the Christian-majority south of the nation. ... Nigeria's government continues to deny this is religious persecution, so violations of Christians' rights are carried out with impunity."
As we mourn the loss of our brothers and sisters in Christ, we must also remember to pray and fast for those who are persecuted around the world. Here are three practical ways to help those in need:
— Support organizations that provide aid and resources to persecuted Christians.
— Raise awareness about the plight of persecuted Christians by sharing their stories and advocating for their rights.
— Encourage your local church to engage in global missions and support efforts to spread the gospel in areas where Christians are facing persecution.
As we celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us not forget those who are suffering for their faith. May we stand in solidarity with our persecuted brothers and sisters and work together to bring hope and healing to those in need.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
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