Enough Is Enough – Christian Leaders Call for Self-Defense After Benue Massacre

Nigerian Church Leaders Urge Christians to Defend Themselves Amid Massacres

Following the gruesome massacre of over 200 Christians in Yelwata, Benue State, Nigerian church leaders are calling on believers to actively defend themselves against ongoing terrorist attacks by Fulani jihadists and other extremist groups.

Survivors recounted how armed militants stormed Yelwata – a predominantly Christian farming village – slaughtering civilians, including women and children. Local leaders say security forces were overwhelmed and failed to respond effectively.

The Yelwata tragedy adds to a growing death toll. Between late May and early June, at least 85 Christians were killed in Benue, while a 2023 report revealed over 50,000 Christian deaths in Nigeria since 2009. Fulani herdsmen, Boko Haram, and ISWAP have been blamed for the violence.

Critics argue that the Nigerian military has become complicit, either through inaction or direct involvement. International observers, including Genocide Watch and the Alliance Against Genocide, are calling for urgent UN intervention.

In response, the Joint Christian Body against Insecurity in Nigeria released a bold statement: “Enough is enough.” They argue that Christians can no longer rely on government protection and must consider self-defense measures, citing scriptures such as Luke 22:36 as justification.

“We have waited too long while our people are slaughtered,” said the group’s president, Nwankwo Tony Nwaezeigwe. “Christians must rise and protect their families.”

Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that self-defense is a matter of natural justice.

As violence escalates, church leaders warn that silence is no longer an option.