Recent Attacks on Christians in Nigeria Following U.S. Designation

Just hours after President Donald Trump labeled Nigeria a country of particular concern due to ongoing violence from Islamic extremists, reports indicated that at least 17 Christians were killed in Nigeria. Local media highlighted “new attacks by armed groups across communities in Plateau and Kaduna states.”

A grim incident unfolded in Kaduna on Friday night, where seven people lost their lives and another was injured, according to Nigeria’s Punch. The attackers “infiltrated” the Damakaswa community in the Chawai emirate around 8 p.m., opening fire and causing residents to flee into nearby bushes.

The Emir of Chawai, Alhaji Yahaya Muhammad, mentioned that five victims died on the spot, while two succumbed to their injuries later. He noted, “The incident heightened tensions in the area, but normalcy has since been restored due to military presence.” He urged the community to stay calm and allow security forces to carry out their work effectively.

Additionally, other attacks over Friday and Saturday in Plateau state reportedly left another 10 people dead. Seven were killed in the Kwi community, while three lost their lives in the Pusit community. Ruwan Tengwon, the leader of the Pusit community, stated that “suspected Fulani militiamen” were responsible. Historically, the Fulani, a predominantly Muslim ethnic group in West Africa, have organized armed groups that primarily target non-Fulani Christian farmers.

The nonprofit International Christian Concern (ICC) indicated that the Friday attacks specifically targeted Christians, occurring in areas prone to gang violence for over a decade. Community leaders shared that many victims were women and children who had gathered for a vigil outside a church the following morning.

Nanjin Dalyop, a local farmer who survived, recounted, “It started suddenly. There was no argument, no warning. I heard gunshots and people screaming. They were shouting in different languages as they shot at everyone.”

In a heartbreaking reflection on the situation, Rahila Bako, who lost her husband in Kwi, expressed, “I don’t know what to say anymore. Every time we bury the dead, we expect someone to speak for us, but no one comes. We are tired of promises.”

On Friday morning, President Trump reaffirmed Nigeria’s designation as a CPC after his predecessor, Joe Biden, had removed it from the list in 2021. Trump stated, “Christianity is facing an existential crisis in Nigeria. Thousands of Christians are being murdered. Radical Islam is responsible for this genocide.” He urged Congress to “immediately investigate this matter” and insisted the United States “cannot stand idly by” while these atrocities occur.

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu responded to Trump’s claims on Saturday, stating they did not reflect “reality.” Reports also indicated that Tinubu was slated to meet with Trump in the coming days.