The recent targeted assaults on Christian communities in Bokkos County, Nigeria, have left a devastating toll, urgently calling for international intervention.
Key Takeaways
- Over 60 Christians were killed by radicalized Fulani in Plateau State, Nigeria, in early April 2025.
- More than 1,000 Christians were displaced, and 383 homes were destroyed during the attacks.
- The violence is described as genocide by Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who emphasized the unprovoked nature of the attacks.
- The attacks are believed to be part of a coordinated plan to drive Christian farmers from their lands, potentially motivated by land seizure.
- Amnesty International criticized the Nigerian government for inaction and called for justice for the victims.
Tragic Events Unfolding in Bokkos County
Over the span of two days in early April 2025, over 60 Christians lost their lives in a harrowing attack by radicalized Fulani herdsmen. The devastation extended across seven Christian communities in Bokkos County, including alarming losses in Hurti village where over 40 individuals were slain. These attacks led to more than 1,000 Christians being displaced, accompanied by the destruction of 383 homes. The scale of the violence has drawn international attention, with urgent calls for intervention.
A Call for Global Intervention
The murders, fueled by the radical ideology of some Fulani militants, have heightened insecurity for Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Governor Caleb Mutfwang labeled these events as “genocide,” underscoring the deliberate and unprovoked nature of the attacks. He stressed, “No one has given me any reason to believe that what happened was politically motivated, and if there is any such suggestion, I’ll be glad to receive the evidence of such, because these were unprovoked attacks on innocent people, vulnerable people.”
Reports reveal that these assaults aim to drive Christian farmers off their lands. Critically, Amnesty International and other organizations have condemned the Nigerian government’s inaction as facilitating these atrocities. The desperation of the displaced is palpable, with many forced to seek refuge in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.
The Broader Picture of Christian Persecution
Nigeria remains one of the most dangerous places for Christians. Witnesses confirm a continuing pattern of violence against Christians by Fulani militias, driven by land seizure motives and religious oppression. As this violence spirals, military intervention becomes essential to dismantle jihadist networks and restore peace in the region.
“Romans 13:4 states, ‘For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.’ The federal government must exercise its authority to bring justice to the oppressed and end the reign of terror in Plateau state,” said Rev. Tongsmangs Dasbak, imploring the federal government to take action.
International Christian Concern president Jeff King has also denounced the attacks. He calls for immediate international response, highlighting the chronic instability allowing militants to target vulnerable Christian communities. The global community’s indifference towards these tragedies cannot continue.
