Faith
Rising Persecution in Nigeria Tests Faith Amid Deadly Attack
Tragedy struck a predominantly Christian community in Jos, Nigeria, as gunmen launched a horrific assault on Palm Sunday. The assailants arrived via motorcycles and vans to target innocent families during what should have been a sacred time of worship.
As believers gathered for business and fellowship, the attackers opened fire indiscriminately, leaving 28 people dead and numerous others wounded. This assault highlights the growing persecution faced by the faithful in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region.
Faith Facts
- Nigeria remains the deadliest place in the world for Christians, accounting for 72 percent of believers killed for their faith globally.
- Radial Islamist groups frequently target Christian farming communities to seize land and forcefully impose religious ideologies.
- The Christian population continues to endure targeted raids and violence despite government curfews and promises of increased security.
Arin Izere, a local gospel singer, witnessed the terror firsthand as gunmen dressed in military fatigues began shooting moments after arriving. This calculated deception allowed the terrorists to approach the defenseless community before unleashing their deadly barrage.
“I went to drop my friend at Angwan Rukuba, and at that moment we saw the terrorists coming down from their vehicle with guns.”
Resident Debra Jalmet voiced the collective heartbreak of a community that has seen far too much bloodshed for the sake of the Gospel. She called for an end to the silence as mothers grieve the loss of children stolen by this senseless violence.
“There is no pain greater than a mother holding a child whose life has been taken too soon. Jos is not just bleeding it is crying through the hearts of its mothers.”
We must stand in prayer for our brothers and sisters in Nigeria who risk their lives daily to stand for Christ. May the Lord provide comfort to the grieving families and strength to the Church in the face of ongoing persecution.