Fulani Herdsmen Attack in Nigeria: Six Christians Killed in Brutal Assault
Fulani herdsmen attacked Farin Dutse village in Nigeria, killing six Christians and injuring others after previously stabbing a farmer who protested against their cattle grazing. The region faces escalating violence against Christians from extremist groups, with Nigeria ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for Christians globally.
On March 10, Fulani herdsmen killed at least six Christians in Farin Dutse village, central Nigeria, following the stabbing of a Christian farmer the previous day. The farmer had protested against the herdsmen grazing cattle on his property. The attackers set homes ablaze while residents were sleeping, according to Esau Ezekiel, a local resident.
Ezekiel explained that during a church service on March 9, a herdsman trespassed upon a Christian’s farm, damaging crops. Instead of leaving when asked, the herdsman fatally stabbed the Christian. The Monday morning raid resulted in the deaths of Friday Danladi, Simeon Madaki, Ayawu Senior, Sunday Wa’azu, Vincent Sunday, Taimako Senior, and Filibus Jatau, with others suffering injuries.
The Nasarawa State Police confirmed the identities of the deceased and reported that the injured were taken to a medical facility. Ramhan Nansel, police spokesman, also noted that infrastructure, including houses and vehicles, was vandalized during the assault, prompting increased security presence in the area.
The United Kingdom’s All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Freedom or Belief noted that while the Fulani comprise various clans, some adhere to radical Islamist ideologies and are known to target Christians. This has led to concerns among Christian leaders about land confiscation and an push towards Islam in the Middle Belt region, exacerbated by environmental challenges.
According to Open Doors’ 2025 World Watch List, Nigeria is one of the most dangerous countries for Christians, with an alarming statistic of 3,100 Christians killed for their faith in a reporting period. This violence primarily impacts the North-Central zone, where Islamic extremist groups like Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) are active, targeting Christian farming communities and contributing to increased abductions and assaults. The report highlights the growing threat in southern states from new jihadist groups like Lakurawa, allied with Al-Qaeda affiliates.
The violence inflicted by Fulani herdsmen on Christian communities in Nigeria highlights a dire situation, marked by systemic attacks aimed at displacing Christians and claiming land. The recent assaults underscore the increasing danger for Christians in Nigeria, where a significant portion of faith-based violence occurs. With extremist groups further complicating the security dynamics, the future of religious freedom and safety for Christians remains precarious, as the country continues to grapple with severe threats to its communities.
Original Source: www.christiandaily.com
