In mid-June 2025 armed militants attacked the village of Yelwata in Benue State, Nigeria, killing an estimated 100–200 people and forcing thousands to flee their homes. The attack targeted mainly Christian farmers and internally displaced persons who had found refuge in the Catholic community of the village. Several buildings, including churches and schools, were burned. Among the victims were also children and the elderly.
Pope Leo XIV expressed his deep sorrow and prayed especially “for the Christian rural communities of the Benue River valley, who are repeatedly falling victim to violence.” He appealed to the international community on behalf of peace and security.
Bishop Gabriel Dunia of the Diocese of Auchi described the events as “a shocking genocide, carried out systematically by means of fear, destruction, and devastation.” A local priest, Father Ukuma Jonathan Angbianbee, said that the attack was carefully coordinated: the militants surrounded the village with motorcycles and prevented civilians from escaping to the safety of the church.
The Catholic Church in Nigeria has appealed to international actors – not only in words but also in the form of concrete assistance – so that “the shedding of innocent blood” may be brought to an end. In certain regions of Nigeria Catholic communities, and especially priests, often fall victim to various acts of violence.
KATT / Vatican News / Omnesmag.com