Gunmen attacked a church in Nigeria, killing two people and kidnapping the pastor and some worshippers, according to Reuters. The incident, which took place in Eru, Kwara State, has triggered widespread concern over escalating violence against Christians in the nation. Reuters reported that the attack occurred on Tuesday evening, during a service at the Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku. The outlet cited a verified video from a local news source, capturing armed men entering the church, taking worshippers’ belongings, and firing shots, forcing parishioners to take cover.
A statement from the governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, requested the immediate deployment of security operatives to investigate and address the situation. This follows the latest wave of violence against Christians in Nigeria, where such attacks have become increasingly frequent, often attributed to extremist groups, including Boko Haram and various other factions operating in the region. The governor’s spokesperson confirmed that security forces were actively engaging in efforts to secure the area and provide assistance to the affected individuals.
The attack was accompanied by other recent incidents of violence, including the abduction of 25 girls from a boarding school in Kebbi State. Police spokesperson Nafi’u Abubakar Kotarkoshi noted that the perpetrators had sophisticated weaponry and exchanged fire with guards before escaping with the students. A combined search and rescue operation has been underway, with officials working to locate the abducted students and apprehend those responsible for the attack. The police have also reported that one individual was killed and another was injured during the abductions.
President Donald Trump has designated Nigeria as a country of particular concern due to the persistent violence against Christians, a trend that he has consistently highlighted in his public statements. The U.S. government has shown increased interest in the issue, with the Trump administration taking steps to address the concerns raised by the persecution of religious minorities in Nigeria.
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Mike Waltz, recently held an event to spotlight the ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria. During the event, Waltz described the attacks as ‘genocide wearing the mask of chaos,’ emphasizing the dire situation and the need for immediate action to protect Christian communities in the country. He argued that the violence has resulted in the displacement of many families, the assassination of several clergy members, and an atmosphere of fear that has gripped entire congregations.
Rap superstar Nicki Minaj, who has been vocal on the issue of religious persecution in Nigeria, also participated in the event. Minaj condemned the attacks and highlighted the broader implications, stating that the situation was not only a growing problem in Nigeria but also in many countries around the world. She called for urgent action and emphasized the importance of uniting humanity in the face of such challenges.
While authorities continue their efforts to secure the region and provide aid to the victims of these attacks, the incidents highlight the ongoing instability and dangers faced by religious minorities in Nigeria. As the government and international community work to address these concerns, the need for sustained efforts to combat extremism and protect vulnerable communities remains paramount.