4/1/2025 Nigeria (International Christian Concern) — Suspected Fulani militants killed 11 Christians during a nighttime raid on the Christian farming community of Ruwi B2 village in Bokkos County, Nigeria, on March 27.
This tragic incident is a part of the ongoing challenges of insecurity in Plateau State, particularly for vulnerable rural Christian communities. Among the deceased were a pregnant woman, her husband, and a 10-year-old girl, prompting an urgent call for action to address these pressing safety concerns.
Survivors described the harrowing experience as gunmen, believed to be associated with Fulani militants, attacked without warning while mourners gathered to pay their respects to an 87-year-old community elder. The attack unfolded over 45 minutes, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
Tajot Stephen Alexander, a Ruwi resident, shared the tragedy’s impact, expressing the widespread fear gripping the village. “In the late evening, armed militants surprised us with their assault. We lost 11 valued lives, including a pregnant woman,” Alexander told ICC.
The residents of Ruwi are now living with a heightened sense of insecurity. They urgently demand not just verbal assurances from authorities, but tangible protection measures. This attack came despite forewarnings about potential violence during the Lenten season, raising concerns about the preparedness of security forces to shield these communities.
The attack occurred with the Nigerian army and Operation Safe Haven security personnel stationed nearby, prompting community members to call for enhanced communication and operational effectiveness among security agencies to better protect residents.
In response, Amnesty International Nigeria condemned the killings and emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure the safety of vulnerable communities. “The inaction of authorities has left people exposed to violence, resulting in devastating losses,” they stated.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang denounced the attack, labeling it a barbaric act against innocent lives. In a statement released by Bere Gyang, Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Mutfwang expressed condolences to the victims’ families and pledged to pursue justice vigorously.
“This brutal assault is not just an attack on individuals on our shared humanity. We will work tirelessly to ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” the governor asserted, also highlighting the importance of enhancing security measures across the state.
Moving forward, both federal and state governments must take decisive and well-coordinated actions to break this cycle of violence. The residents of Ruwi B2 remain hopeful that their calls for reinforced security and community support will lead to meaningful change, allowing them to rebuild and thrive in peace.
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