Fulani Herdsmen Attack Intensifies Violence Against Christians in Nigeria
Fulani herdsmen attacked the Christian village of Farin Dutse, Nigeria, killing at least six villagers and injuring three others. The violence followed the stabbing of a Christian farmer who had objected to the herdsmen grazing cattle on his property. The incident underscores the broader issues of persecution and land disputes faced by Christians in Nigeria, where violence against them is rampant.
On March 10, in Nasarawa County, Nigeria, Fulani herdsmen attacked the predominantly Christian village of Farin Dutse, resulting in the deaths of at least six villagers. The incident followed the fatal stabbing of a Christian farmer a day earlier who had protested against the herdsmen grazing cattle on his property. Eyewitness Esau Ezekiel reported that the assailants launched their attack around 3 a.m., igniting homes and causing panic in the community.
The vigilante response identified the deceased as Friday Danladi, Simeon Madaki, Ayawu Senior, Sunday Wa’azu, Vincent Sunday, Taimako Senior, and Filibus Jatau. Three additional Christians, Samaniya Wa’azu, Vincent Ezekiel, and Johnson Maikasuwa, sustained injuries during the assault, which was confirmed by the state police. Additionally, extensive property damage was reported as numerous houses, shops, vehicles, and motorcycles were vandalized.
The Nasarawa State Police Command has increased law enforcement presence in the area to ensure safety. While the majority of the Fulani community does not support extremist ideologies, elements within their ranks have been associated with violence against Christians, deemed as attempts to undermine or take control of Christian lands. Reports indicate that these hostilities against Christian communities are believed to be motivated by land occupation and resource competition amid environmental challenges.
Nigeria continues to rank as one of the most perilous places for Christians according to the Open Doors World Watch List for 2025. The report highlights that of 4,476 Christian fatalities globally, 3,100 occurred in Nigeria, demonstrating the severity of anti-Christian violence in the country. Regional security reports also note that Islamic extremist factions, including Boko Haram and splinter groups, exacerbate the attacks on Christian farming communities.
Further violence has spilled over into southern regions with the emergence of new jihadist factions. The report indicates that Nigeria ranks seventh on the World Watch List for countries where Christians face the greatest persecution. For those wishing to support persecuted Christians or assist in raising awareness, resources are available through various aid organizations.
The recent brutal assault by Fulani herdsmen in Nigeria highlights the increasing peril faced by Christian communities, driven by both land disputes and radical Islamism. With confirmed fatalities and extensive property damage, the incident reinforces Nigeria’s troubling position as one of the deadliest countries for Christians. The ongoing violence not only threatens local populations but also triggers a broader humanitarian response as organizations seek to provide support and raise awareness of the plight of persecuted Christians globally.
Original Source: morningstarnews.org
