Massacre of Christian Families: A Disturbing Attack on Internally Displaced Persons

(LibertySociety.com) – Nigeria’s Benue State recently bore witness to a horrifying assault, leaving Christian families devastated and raising critical questions about religious persecution.

At a Glance

• Over 200 Christian individuals were massacred by Islamist Fulani militants in Yelewata, Nigeria.
• Attackers set ablaze buildings and used machetes while shouting “Allahu Akbar.”
• Pope Leo XIV condemned the violence, calling for justice and security for victims.
• Criticism mounts as Nigerian law enforcement faces scrutiny over delayed response.

Grisly Assault in Benue State

Over 200 Christians were killed by Islamist Fulani militants on June 13, 2025, in Yelewata, Benue state, Nigeria. The attack, described as the “worst killing spree” in the region, targeted internally displaced Christian families, their shelters mercilessly raided while they slept. The attackers set fire to buildings and wielded machetes, chanting “Allahu Akbar.”

Witnesses recounted the horror as Father Ukuma Jonathan Angbianbee, a local priest who narrowly escaped death, confessed to witnessing corpses strewn across the ground. Initial reports indicated 100 deaths, a figure which doubled as the full scale of the attack came to light.

Condemnation and Calls for Justice

Pope Leo XIV condemned the massacre, emphasizing the importance of providing security and peace to the victims. The diocese confirmed the death toll, marking this assault as the deadliest in the area. Angry criticisms have been directed at Nigerian law enforcement due to their delayed response.

“The militants stormed in, shouting ‘Allahu Akhbar’ (‘God is great’), before killing people at will.” – ACN.

Critics argue the violence symbolizes a broader plan to eradicate Christians in the region, echoing previous attacks during Lent and Holy Week that resulted in over 170 Christian deaths. The continued violence stirs concerns about religious persecution amid allegations of governmental inaction.

Addressing a Growing Crisis

The attack, targeting displaced families of approximately 500 individuals, reflects persistent insecurity affecting Nigeria’s Christian communities. Amnesty International reported families being locked and burned inside their homes, underscoring the brutality of the perpetrators. Pope Leo XIV stressed the need for urgent international intervention.

“When we heard the shots and saw the militants, we committed our lives to God. This morning, I thank God I am alive.” – Rev. Ukuma Jonathan Angbianbee.

The escalating violence has displaced over 5,000 people, further exacerbating the crisis. With approximately 10,000 Nigerian Christians killed by extremists from late 2022 to 2024, the tragedy in Benue augurs concern over Nigeria’s future and the critical need for international support and intervention.

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