Nigeria: 12 Christians Killed in Plateau State Attack

Image: Jihad Watch

A fresh wave of violence in Nigeria’s Plateau State has left at least 12 Christians dead between January 1 and January 9, according to local residents and community leaders, underscoring the deepening security crisis facing predominantly Christian communities in the region.

In the Gero area of Gyel District, Jos South County, armed Fulani herdsmen attacked members of the Christian community in broad daylight on Friday, January 9. One Christian was killed and another critically injured in the assault, said local resident Tengwong Yohana Thomas.

“Two Christians who are members of our community were attacked by a group of armed Fulani herdsmen in broad daylight,” Thomas told Christian Daily International–Morning Star News. “One of the victims was stabbed to death, while the second sustained life-threatening injuries.”

The injured victim was rushed to a hospital and remains under medical care, Thomas said. As head of the Plateau Youth Council (PYC) Gyel, he issued a press statement condemning the attack and warning that it reflects a pattern of persistent insecurity threatening otherwise peaceful communities in Gyel and nearby areas.

“The PYC Gyel strongly condemns this wicked and inhumane attack on harmless citizens,” the statement read. “The continuous targeting of innocent lives is unacceptable and constitutes a clear provocation against peace and coexistence in our land.”

The youth council called on security agencies to swiftly identify and apprehend those responsible, urging authorities at all levels of government to intensify security operations in Gero Gyel and surrounding communities. It also appealed to residents to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding, while cooperating fully with security forces by reporting suspicious movements or activities.

Earlier in the week, on the night of January 7, another deadly incident unfolded in the predominantly Christian village of Foron, located in Barkin Ladi County. Community leader Mose Dung said Fulani herdsmen ambushed two Christians who were returning home.

The attack occurred along the Kumex–Mararaba–Foron axis. One of the victims, Ayuba Choji, 44, was stabbed to death, while his companion sustained injuries but survived.

“The victim, Ayuba Choji, was brutally stabbed to death by Fulani bandits while riding a motorcycle with a companion, who managed to escape with his life,” Dung said. He added that the community had received repeated threats prior to the attack. “We were warned by Fulani bandits to leave our community or face violent attacks aimed at forcing us out of the area.”

A similar incident was reported in Riyom County on January 6, when an attack late in the evening claimed the life of a young Christian man. Community leader Jacob Dawap said the assault took place in Wvak village, part of the Jol community in Riyom Local Government Area.

“At about 9:57 p.m., a brutal and senseless attack was carried out on Wvak village, leading to the killing of a Christian, Mr. Pius Luka, aged 23,” Dawap said. “This unfortunate and barbaric act was perpetrated by Fulani terrorists.”

The series of attacks has heightened fear among Christian communities across Plateau State, where residents say recurring violence, threats, and displacement have become a grim reality. Community leaders continue to appeal for stronger security intervention and long-term measures to restore peace and protect vulnerable populations.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)