Pray for Nigerian Christian Villages: Over 200 Killed

Hundreds killed and thousands displaced in violent attacks on Christians in Nigeria’s Benue State, as Open Doors urges urgent prayer, aid, and action.

Key Points:

Open Doors, a non-denominational mission supporting persecuted Christians around the world, have reported “a devastating wave of attacks in Benue State, Nigeria, earlier this year has left more than 200 people dead and thousands displaced”.

“Open Doors condemns in the strongest terms possible the attacks in Benue state,” Open Doors’ spokesperson for sub-Saharan Africa Jo Newhouse said.

“For this pattern of attack on mostly Christian villages to continue without restraint is totally unacceptable. Christians in the Middle Belt of Nigeria need to know their government is willing to do what is needed to secure their safety of all her citizens, regardless of their ethnicity or religion.”

The reported “horrifying” violence includes militants burning buildings and attacking people with guns and machetes.

First-hand accounts

Tese Matthew, 60, recalled how some community members slept in their stores to protect their livelihoods. 

“The extremists burnt down the stores with people inside, together with the goods,” she said.

“Please pray for us so that we will have peace and can go back to our homes.”

While 31-year-old farmer Dennis Nomsoo said his family had taken refuge in a church the night of an attack. When morning came, he discovered his grandfather was dead and his father’s wife severely injured. 

Despite intense suffering, Dennis’ faith remains.

“I cannot relent in worshipping God,” he said. “I will still praise Him and be glad for my life and my other surviving family members.”

Urgent aid needed

Open Doors said the need is overwhelming to support partners on the ground trying to keep up with supplies that are literally keeping people alive.

An estimated 9000 displaced Christians require food, blankets, trauma care, and Bibles in the coming months.

Virtue, an Open Doors field partner, said many are traumatised and struggling to hold onto hope. 

“From what I saw, the people are really traumatised. They couldn’t really smile or sing, even when we gave them food. They need long-term healing and support.”

How you can help

“We know that the church in Nigeria is being brutally attacked, yet our brothers and sisters there are united and part of the global body of Christ.  As Australians, we can stand with them through prayer and practical support,” Open Doors Australia and New Zealand CEO Adam Holland said.

Open Doors said you can help families and persecuted Christians by:

Feature image: CanvaPro