Nigeria: Christian Pastor, Daughter, and Son-in-Law Killed in Machete Attack; Infant Seriously Injured

Image: Jihad Watch

ABUJA, Nigeria (Christian Daily International–Morning Star News) – A tragic act of violence last month claimed the lives of a pastor, his daughter, and her husband in Plateau state, Nigeria, after suspected Fulani herdsmen launched a brutal attack on the family. The incident also left the couple’s three-month-old baby seriously injured with a machete wound to the head, though the infant ultimately survived.

According to a statement released by the Evangelical Missionary Society (EMS) of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), the Christian family was ambushed on January 16 while traveling along the Jos–Barkin Ladi highway en route to a village in Barkin Ladi County. The victims were identified as Rev. Bulus Madaki, an EMS missionary worker, along with his daughter and son-in-law. During the assault, the attackers killed the three adults, while the infant granddaughter was severely wounded and left behind, presumed dead. Despite the life-threatening injury, the child survived.

EMS leaders described the incident as a painful reminder of the sacrifices faced by Christian missionaries in parts of Nigeria, emphasizing that many continue their work despite the risks. They noted that Rev. Madaki had faithfully served at the Janta 2 Mission Station in the Zagun District Church Council (DCC) before recently being transferred to Gwol DCC. He was killed near the Kassa-Nding Bridge in Barkin Ladi County while traveling to assume his new assignment — a destination he ultimately never reached.

In their statement, the mission leaders expressed grief over the loss, highlighting that the infant girl is now left without her parents and grandfather, all taken in a single violent incident. They characterized the attack as an example of the harsh and dangerous realities that missionaries often encounter in Nigeria, where religious outreach can involve significant personal risk.

Despite the tragedy, EMS officials stressed their determination to continue their work, stating that the growth of Christian missions in Nigeria persists even amid violence and insecurity. They described the suffering endured by missionaries as part of a broader struggle, maintaining that their efforts to spread their faith continue despite ongoing challenges.

(This Article was originally published by Jihad Watch)