Fresh reports of deadly violence have once again placed Nigeria’s Christian communities in the international spotlight after a series of attacks in Plateau and Kaduna states left at least 31 people dead, including a pastor, according to CBN News, Christian Daily International, and multiple local sources.
The deadliest assault reportedly occurred during the night of June 21–22 in Kawel community, Mushere District of Bokkos Local Government Area in Plateau State, where residents, church leaders, and Christian advocacy organizations say heavily armed gunmen attacked homes and a hospital, killing at least 22 Christians.
Another attack days earlier in Kaduna State reportedly claimed the lives of nine more residents in a predominantly Christian farming community.
Survivors Describe a Night of Terror
According to residents interviewed by Christian Daily International and other Christian news organizations, gunmen entered Kawel late at night armed with AK-style rifles and moved from house to house opening fire.
Witnesses and local community leaders identified the attackers as suspected Fulani militants, while several Christian advocacy groups described the assault as part of a broader pattern of violence against Christian farming communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. Nigerian authorities had not publicly confirmed the identity or motive of the attackers at the time of reporting.
Residents said 22 people were killed, including 17 men and five women.
Among those reported killed was Rev. Markus Nyam of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), who, according to local church leaders, was shot outside his home.
Community members also reported that a physician was killed after attackers allegedly searched for him at a hospital. Several patients reportedly died during the assault as well.
One survivor recounted that a pregnant woman escaped through the rear of the hospital while her husband was killed. She later safely delivered her child after reaching shelter.
CBN News Highlights Ongoing Crisis
According to CBN News, iReach Global, a ministry serving persecuted Christians in Nigeria, documented the aftermath of the attack and shared video showing Rev. Ezekiel Dochomo speaking during funeral services for the victims.
Clint Lyons, Executive Director of iReach Global, told CBN’s Christian World News that the latest killings reflect what he believes is an ongoing pattern.
“This isn’t just a tragedy. It’s a pattern. These attacks are no longer isolated. They are becoming expected.”
Lyons also criticized what he described as a delayed military response, stating that soldiers stationed nearby allegedly did not intervene for approximately two hours while the attack unfolded. News Watchmen has not independently verified that claim.
Another Christian Community Attacked
Just days before the Plateau killings, another armed assault struck Ungwan Magaji village in Kaduna State.
Community leaders and medical workers said nine people were killed and at least 11 others injured.
Victims reportedly included men, women, and young children.
Health worker Sunday Aboh said local clinics treated numerous casualties before transferring the most critically injured patients to larger medical facilities.
Church leaders also described kidnappings, beatings, and ransom demands during the violence.
A Region Marked by Repeated Violence
Plateau and Kaduna states have experienced recurring attacks for years.
Nigerian officials have frequently described violence in the region as involving a complex mix of disputes over land, grazing routes, criminal activity, and communal tensions.
At the same time, Christian leaders, local churches, and advocacy organizations argue that Christian farming communities have been disproportionately targeted and have called for stronger government protection.
Open Doors’ 2026 World Watch List reported that Nigeria accounted for a large share of Christians killed worldwide for their faith during its reporting period, underscoring continuing concerns about religious persecution in parts of the country.
Communities Continue to Mourn
As families bury loved ones, ministries including iReach Global say they are providing food, Bibles, and humanitarian assistance to survivors.
Community leaders continue urging Nigerian authorities to increase security in vulnerable rural areas and bring those responsible for the attacks to justice.
The investigations into the recent attacks remain ongoing.
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Prophetic Perspective
For Christians around the world, reports of persecution are a reminder of biblical passages describing believers enduring hardship because of their faith. Jesus told His followers that they would face persecution in various parts of the world while encouraging them to remain faithful and compassionate toward those who suffer. Whatever the motives behind these attacks ultimately prove to be, believers are called to pray for victims, support humanitarian relief efforts, and seek justice while remembering those who endure persecution for their faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were reported killed?
Reports from CBN News and other Christian news organizations state that at least 31 people were killed in two separate attacks in Plateau and Kaduna states.
Was a pastor among the victims?
Yes. Local church leaders reported that Rev. Markus Nyam of the Church of Christ in Nations was killed during the Plateau State attack.
Who carried out the attacks?
Residents and Christian advocacy organizations identified the attackers as suspected Fulani militants. Nigerian authorities had not publicly confirmed the attackers’ identity or motive at the time of reporting.
Why is Plateau State frequently mentioned in reports of violence?
The region has experienced repeated deadly attacks for years involving a complex mix of communal conflict, criminal activity, and disputes over land and grazing, while many Christian organizations say Christians have been disproportionately affected.
Are humanitarian groups assisting survivors?
Yes. Ministries including iReach Global say they are distributing food, Bibles, and essential supplies to affected families.
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