Fulani Herdsmen Attack Claiming Lives of Christians in Nigeria

Fulani herdsmen in Nigeria killed six Christians in a recent attack, following the prior stabbing of a farmer over grazing rights. The violence reflects ongoing tensions in the region, exacerbated by land disputes and radical ideologies. Reports confirm the alarming rate of anti-Christian violence, positioning Nigeria as a perilous country for Christians.

On March 10, a tragic incident unfolded in Farin Dutse village, located in Nasarawa State, central Nigeria, where Fulani herdsmen killed at least six Christian villagers. This attack followed the stabbing death of a Christian farmer the previous day, who had confronted a herdsman over grazing rights on his land. Eyewitness Esau Ezekiel reported that the herdsmen attacked around 3 a.m., setting homes ablaze and causing significant destruction to the village.

The previous day, while attending church, villagers witnessed a herdsman allowing his cattle to graze on a farm. When the farmer asked the herdsman to remove his cattle from the property, he was fatally stabbed. The names of the victims from the March 10 attack include Friday Danladi, Simeon Madaki, and Filibus Jatau, among others. Several individuals also sustained injuries and were transported to medical facilities for treatment.

The Nasarawa State Police confirmed the incident, identifying the deceased and stating that law enforcement and military personnel have been deployed to the area to restore order. It was noted that the attackers vandalized properties, including homes and vehicles. The presence of radical elements among some Fulani herdsmen has been highlighted by various reports, indicating a growing trend of violence against Christian communities in Nigeria.

According to a report by the UK’s All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom of Belief, some radicalized Fulani exhibit aggressive behavior that specifically targets Christians. This violence primarily stems from competition over land and resources, as desertification poses challenges to the herders’ livelihoods. Furthermore, Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List ranks Nigeria among the most perilous countries for Christians, with a staggering 69 percent of global anti-Christian violence occurring within its borders.

As anti-Christian violence escalates, particularly in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, the ongoing threat from both Fulani militias and established jihadist groups such as Boko Haram continues to endanger Christian communities. The situation has been exacerbated by the emergence of new jihadist entities like Lakurawa, implicating major concerns for regional security and the safety of religious minorities.

In summary, the recent attacks by Fulani herdsmen against Christian villagers in Nigeria illustrate the alarming prevalence of violence in the region and the ongoing targeting of Christian communities. With radical elements among the herdsmen and a lack of governmental control over northern Nigeria, the safety of Christians remains in jeopardy. This pattern of violence, substantiated by reports from credible organizations, underscores Nigeria’s status as one of the most dangerous countries for Christians globally.

Original Source: www.christiandaily.com