Fulani extremists launched attacks on Benue communities, killing 13 Christian farmers last week. In the village of Egwuma in Agatu, 12 individuals were killed, with another fatality in Gwer West County. Local reports indicate that one displaced person was injured, and five others are missing. 

Godwin Edoh, a lawmaker representing the Agatu state constituency, highlighted the ongoing violence in these areas, refuting claims of returning peace and the safe return of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Jacob Terna, a former IDP camp manager, reported additional attacks on displaced individuals, resulting in one death, one injury, and five missing persons. The state police confirmed five deaths in Agatu but were unaware of the incident in Agagbe, Gwer West. 

“International Christian Concern (ICC) urges Nigerian authorities to thoroughly investigate and address these security concerns to ensure the safety of the affected Christian communities,” an ICC staffer said. “Continued assistance to IDPs and affected persons is crucial.” 

Assassination of a Peace Advocate in Plateau State 

On Thursday, July 18, Yakubu Muhammad, a prominent member of the 17-man Peace Implementation Committee of Irigwe/Fulani-Bassa County, was assassinated in Jebbu-Bassa. He was an active member of the committee and the leader of the Fulani Youth, providing intelligence to security officials and Christian leaders to help prevent attacks on Christian communities in Bassa County, Plateau state. 

Muhammad’s murder, which some believe was conducted by Islamic Fulani extremists, underscores the dangers faced by peace advocates and raises urgent concerns about the safety and security of all peace advocates in Irigwe/Fulani-Bassa and beyond. 

Kidnappings in Southern Kaduna 

In addition to Islamic Fulani extremist attacks, Christians in Southern Kaduna also face kidnappings by bandits targeting Christians for ransom. Recently, 57 Christians were abducted, and 11 were killed after failing to pay ransom. These incidents have severely disrupted community life, particularly farming and church activities. 

“International Christian Concern (ICC) calls for the Kaduna state government to investigate these abductions thoroughly and ensure justice for the victims,” an ICC staffer said. “Psychological support for affected individuals and families is also crucial.” 

Source: persecution.org