At Least 12 Christians Killed in Plateau State, Nigeria

A series of attacks in Barkin Ladi County, Plateau state, resulted in the deaths of at least 12 Christians during late September. Local residents and community leaders report that the violence occurred across several villages, including Marit, Kworos Gangare, Nghar, Gassa, and Rubung. Victims were reportedly targeted while working at mining sites or within their communities. Additionally, the funeral for the Rev. Andy Samuel, a Baptist pastor killed in the Kantoma area, was held on September 25.

Plateau State Commissioner for Information Joyce Ramnap confirmed the attacks and issued a call for calm, stating that the government is working to address the ongoing violence. Community leaders identified several of the deceased, including young men and local workers. While the perpetrators were identified by witnesses as Fulani gunmen, reports note that the Fulani population is diverse, with only some factions adhering to radical ideologies.

These incidents occur amid broader concerns regarding the safety of Christians in Nigeria. According to the 2026 World Watch List by Open Doors, Nigeria recorded 3,490 Christian deaths related to faith between October 2024 and September 2025, accounting for the majority of such fatalities globally.