Pope and U.S. Condemn Horrific Massacre of Christians in Nigeria’s Benue State

In a heart-wrenching escalation of violence, Islamist militants unleashed a brutal attack on June 13 in Yelewata, Benue State, Nigeria, claiming around 200 lives, mostly Christians seeking refuge in a Catholic sanctuary. Pope Leo XIV, addressing thousands at the Vatican, condemned the massacre, noting the "extraordinary cruelty" inflicted on victims, many of whom were internal refugees. The pontiff called for prayers to bring peace and justice to the region’s beleaguered rural Christian communities.

The U.S. State Department echoed this condemnation, labeling the attacks, primarily targeting Christian farming villages, as a growing threat. A spokesperson highlighted the involvement of groups like Boko Haram and ISIS-West Africa, emphasizing that these violent extremists aim to destabilize Nigeria’s secular state. The assailants, reportedly shouting "Allahu Akbar," burned homes and attacked with guns and machetes, leaving a trail of devastation.

Nigeria remains a perilous place for Christians, with Open Doors International’s 2025 World Watch List reporting that 69% of the 4,476 Christians killed globally last year were in Nigeria. Benue State, 93% Christian, has become a focal point for these assaults. A Nigerian church leader, speaking anonymously for safety, revealed to reporters that the militants’ goal is to impose Sharia law and suppress Christianity across the region.

The violence has personal stakes. Bishop Wilfred Anagbe, after testifying to U.S. Congress in March about Christian persecution, faced retaliation. His diocese suffered four attacks in 10 days, claiming 20 lives, and he now hides due to credible threats against him. Meanwhile, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu visited Benue, promising a "framework for lasting peace." Tragically, six more deaths were reported in the same district that day.

The State Department continues to urge Nigeria’s government to bolster civilian protection and counterterrorism efforts, stressing accountability for perpetrators. Yet, with the government’s response still unclear, the cycle of violence persists, leaving communities in fear and mourning.