News / Thoughts

Nigeria: More than 20 people killed

Last month, in Nigeria, more than 20 people were killed in various raids attributed to Fulani militants. Among them were Rev. Adamu Wurim Gyang, his wife, Jummai and their three children.

Since then, the violence has continued, with more attacks in the same area. In September alone, over 20 people have been killed and dozens more injured in ambushes and drive-by shootings. A spokesperson from the Miango Youth Development Association, Lawrence Zongo, said that six people in the same district had their farm produce (almost due for harvest) destroyed by Fulani herdsmen during the week. He said the herdsmen were grazing on the farmlands indiscriminately, without being arrested, and called their actions ‘evil and inhuman’. “So far, we have lost 27 of our people in ambush attacks from April to September, 2018,” he said.

‘Let God avenge me’

Seven-year-old Rashida (pictured above) was caught up in a raid by Fulani herdsmen a few months ago, and shot in the leg. She was defiant, even in the face of her attackers. “I told [the leader of the militant group] to let God avenge me. That made him very angry and he told me to get up and leave. I ran home, but the wound on my thigh made me slow.” Open Doors local church partners visited the survivors of the attack, bringing with them trauma counselling services and aid.

Pray now…

• For the family of Pastor Adamu and others who have died in the recent violence, that God would comfort them in the midst of their grief
• For healing and provision for those who have been injured in recent attacks
• For an end to the violence against believers in Nigeria, and for those intent on harming Christians to come to full knowledge of the saving grace and love of Jesus.
• If you would like to gather with others to pray for our church family in Nigeria, come to our free Love Nigeria event.

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