Reports indicate that Islamic extremists in Nigeria are planning an attack around Christmas that could result in significant casualties and displacement, according to the head of a Nigerian news outlet.
Judd Sole, a filmmaker and evangelist with The Truth is Nigeria, shared with a reporter that these extremists are mobilizing forces targeted at Christian communities throughout the country.
Saul mentioned that Fulani insurgents seem to be preparing for assaults on areas like Riom, Bockos, Barkin Lotti in Plateau State, and regions in Agatu, Benue State, as well as Kafanchan in Kaduna State.
His warning was grave: without swift action from Nigerian authorities—possibly spurred by pressure from the U.S.—up to 1,000 lives could be lost, and anywhere between 20,000 to 40,000 people might be displaced.
He referred to data from Open Doors, suggesting that over 3,100 Christians could be killed in Nigeria by 2025. Various U.S. officials have urged the Nigerian government to ensure the safety of Christians there.
Saul pointed out that groups involved in these frequent attacks include Boko Haram, West African ISIS, and particularly the Fulani militias, which he stated are the most lethal. He estimated that around 80% of the violence against Christians can be attributed to them.
“These groups often collaborate unless they are fighting each other,” he noted, adding that their overarching aim seems to be establishing a caliphate in Nigeria.
Despite the ongoing violence, including murders, rapes, and mass kidnappings, Saul pointed out that these extremists often intensify their assaults during significant Christian observances.
The Christmas attacks last year had already left around 200 dead, primarily in Bockos, as reported by various sources.
One villager recounted a horrific event where their community faced violence on Christmas Eve, leading to many homes, including a church, being burned. The aftermath left many searching for missing individuals.
Concerns about future assaults are echoed by others as well. Sean Nelson, a Senior Advisor with Alliance Defending Freedom International, recently participated in discussions about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria and conveyed similar fears.
“Unfortunately, Christmas has become a period where many Christians feel anxious about potential threats,” he mentioned.
Saul stated that his organization has been able to identify targeted locations and assess the severity of threats thanks to the diligence of local citizen journalists.
He emphasized the capability of his reporters not just to understand the contextual backdrop of conflicts but also to physically investigate attacks by collecting information and speaking to witnesses directly.
In contrast, he criticized mainstream media in Nigeria, claiming they are often subsidized by the government to report only favorable narratives.
According to Saul, their research allows them to predict future violence with a high degree of accuracy, unlike the military, which he suggested tends to vacate areas just before attacks occur.
While Saul refrained from disclosing specific intelligence about the imminent Christmas attack, he described the investigative techniques his team employs.
Initially set up to document violence and share it internationally, Truth Nigeria has gained local trust, leading community members to provide tips about unpredictable movements or groups in the area.
Villagers often inform them whenever suspicious armed groups pass through, he said: “When they see clusters of armed Fulani fighters, they call us.”
Saul believes that, like past incidents, the potential attack can be averted if the authorities take necessary measures.
“Does the Nigerian government value terrorism more than its citizens?” he challenged. “Are they committed to nurturing a thriving Nigeria that stands as a beacon in Africa, or do they favor radical ideologies?”
He clarified that while a military intervention from the U.S. isn’t ideal, it might be the only path to halt the brutality against Christians, suggesting that a third-party intervention could ensure the integrity of elections in the future.
In early November, President Trump issued a stark warning to the Nigerian government, indicating that continued violence against Christians might result in the U.S. withdrawing all support and taking military action against the terrorists involved.
He instructed the Department of the Army to get ready for potential operations, stating if force was needed, it would be swift and decisive.
“The Nigerian government must either safeguard Christians or face the consequences of inaction against the terrorist groups causing these atrocities,” he concluded.
