The Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, located in Benue State, Nigeria, is facing a severe crisis due to escalating attacks by suspected armed herders. Over 15 parishes have been forced to close their doors as entire communities are displaced by the violence. Rev. Fr. Joseph Beba, Chairman of the Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association in Makurdi, revealed the gravity of the situation, citing communities like Jiba, Mabalom Yelwata, and Aondona as examples of places completely abandoned due to the persistent attacks. The displacement has not only rendered these parishes non-functional but has also resulted in significant loss of life, with over 50 people, including women and children, killed in the past two weeks alone. Fr. Beba pointed to several communities ravaged by violence, including Tse Orbiam, Ahume, Jimba, Nagi-Camp, Aondoana, Yelewata, and Abegana, highlighting the widespread impact of the attacks. The church leadership believes these attacks are a direct response to Bishop Wilfred Anagbe’s recent testimony in the US and Europe, where he spoke about the systematic persecution of Christians in Benue State and Nigeria.
The alarming surge in violence, concentrated primarily in Gwer West Local Government Area, has raised serious concerns about the effectiveness of security forces in the region. Fr. Beba expressed deep dismay at the apparent apathy of the Nigerian army stationed in the affected areas. He accused the military of displaying “low energy” and exhibiting what he termed “complicity” by failing to intervene or pursue the attackers. The priest described a specific incident involving the shooting of Revd Fr. Solomon Atongo on May 24, 2025, which took place a mere 3 kilometers from Naka and less than 500 meters from an army checkpoint at Tse Orbiam. Despite pleas for help from villagers, the military reportedly failed to respond. This incident, along with others, underscores the apparent inability or unwillingness of security forces to protect vulnerable communities. The unchecked aggression of the armed herders has created a climate of fear and instability, forcing families to flee their homes and disrupting the social and religious fabric of the region.
The church leadership views the escalating violence as a targeted campaign against Bishop Anagbe and the Catholic Church. They believe the attacks are strategically orchestrated to silence the bishop and intimidate the Christian community. Bishop Anagbe’s outspoken advocacy for persecuted Christians has made him a target, and the increased violence following his international testimony strengthens this suspicion. The closure of parishes represents a significant disruption to the spiritual life of the communities affected, depriving them of their places of worship and pastoral support during a time of immense hardship and vulnerability. The attacks are not only a physical threat but also an attempt to undermine the religious freedom and expression of Christians in the region.
The precarious security situation and the apparent lack of government intervention have prompted calls for decisive action. Fr. Beba appealed to both President Bola Tinubu and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia to declare war on the armed herders, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. He pointedly referenced Governor Alia’s earlier identification of the perpetrators as non-Nigerians, suggesting that external forces are contributing to the instability within the state. The priest also called on the youth of Benue State to be prepared to defend their communities, their farmlands, and their way of life, invoking the inherent right to self-defense for all citizens. This call underscores the desperation felt by many as they perceive a lack of protection from official authorities.
The attacks on Christian communities in Benue State represent a complex and multifaceted crisis. The violence has displaced thousands, disrupted lives, and fueled religious tension. The perceived inaction of the Nigerian military raises questions about the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens and preserving the rule of law. The attacks appear to be part of a larger pattern of violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, often attributed to armed Fulani herders, although the motivations and identities of the perpetrators are frequently debated. The situation is further complicated by accusations of land disputes and competition for resources, which exacerbate the underlying religious and ethnic tensions. The closure of the parishes is not merely a religious issue; it also represents a severe disruption of social services and community support networks, leaving affected populations even more vulnerable.
The crisis in Benue State requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses both the immediate security concerns and the underlying drivers of the conflict. Strengthening security forces and ensuring their impartial enforcement of the law is critical to protecting vulnerable communities. Simultaneously, addressing land disputes, promoting interfaith dialogue, and fostering economic development are crucial for long-term peace and stability. The international community also has a role to play in supporting the Nigerian government’s efforts to address the violence and promote human rights. Providing humanitarian assistance to displaced populations and advocating for accountability for those responsible for the attacks are essential steps toward resolving the crisis. The situation in Benue State serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of religious persecution and the urgent need for concerted action to protect vulnerable communities and promote peaceful coexistence.
