12/22/2023 Nigeria (International Christian Concern) – Bandits allegedly killed 19-year-old Jude Nicodemus and severely injured two others on Wednesday evening in Gana Ropp village in Plateau State, Nigeria. 

The incident occurred in a region that has seen a rise in threats and attacks against Christians, including Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Bokkos and Mangu. Villagers fear more attacks over Christmas and New Year’s.  

The Berom Youth Moulders-Association (BYM), under the leadership of Solomon Dalyop Mwantiri, condemned the recent attack. Mwantiri called on security and government forces to do more to protect its citizens. The BYM also commended the rapid response of Sector 4 Commander, Col. US Abdulsallam, for his swift action that prevented further attacks this week. 

BYM leaders appealed for calm and asked everyone to be more vigilant about threats during the holidays. The BYM also encouraged local officials to help offset funeral and medical expenses for the victims and their families. 

Militants, alleged to be radical Fulani, also attacked a village in southern Kaduna on Thursday. No one was injured. One community leader old International Christian Concern (ICC) that Fulani militants grazed cattle on local fields and destroyed produce that was intended for use at Christmas. Militants also destroyed crops earlier in the year at harvest time.