In a brutal reminder of the ongoing persecution faced by Christians in Nigeria, five believers were murdered during a Bible study in Kaduna State.
Rising Tide of Violence in Kaduna
On July 11, 2025, armed attackers stormed the Evangelical Church Winning All in Kampani village, located in Kajuru County, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The assailants killed five believers and left three others injured. This attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents targeting Christians in the region, which has become a dangerous flashpoint for religious persecution.
Kajuru County, mainly made up of Christian farming communities, has been subjected to repeated assaults, kidnappings, and the forced displacement of residents. The violence is largely attributed to Fulani ethnic militias, who are driven by a toxic mix of land disputes and religious extremism. Despite the escalating attacks, the Nigerian government has struggled to provide adequate security, leaving these communities vulnerable and fearful.
Historical Context of Persecution
Religious tensions in Nigeria have deep roots and have been exacerbated by the rise of Islamist extremist groups like Boko Haram. Since 2009, these groups have unleashed terror, particularly in the north and central regions, claiming over 52,000 Christian lives. Kaduna State, with its volatile mix of Muslim Fulani herders and Christian farmers, is one of the hardest-hit areas.
Five Christians were slaughtered last week when armed men stormed a Bible study in northwest Nigeria, the latest in a wave of brutal, targeted attacks against Christian communities in the region. The deadly assault occurred around 3:30 p.m. last Friday… https://t.co/EXozIBKnF5 pic.twitter.com/zWsWi74uak
— The Western Journal (@WesternJournalX) July 16, 2025
Incidents of violence against Christians have increased dramatically, with attacks on churches and religious gatherings becoming more frequent. In 2023 alone, over 1,000 Christians were killed in Nigeria, with Kaduna witnessing at least 101 abductions targeting Christians. The ongoing violence has created a climate of fear and insecurity among residents, who are often unable to safely remain in their homes or tend to their farms.
Calls for Action and Protection
Local community leaders, including Happiness Daniel and Stephen Maikori, have condemned the attacks and are urgently calling for enhanced protection. They describe the dire situation where many residents live in constant fear, unable to sleep peacefully or carry out their daily activities. The lack of a strong government response has eroded trust in state authorities, further exacerbating the situation.
Recent attacks are part of a broader trend of violence that has severely disrupted religious and social life in the region. Churches, once places of solace and worship, have become targets, forcing many to abandon their religious practices out of fear for their lives. The economic impact is also significant, as farming and local commerce suffer, leading to increased poverty and food insecurity.
International Attention and Advocacy
International organizations and advocacy groups, such as Open Doors and Intersociety, have been vocal about the plight of Nigerian Christians. They report that Nigeria is among the worst countries for Christian persecution, with thousands killed and kidnapped annually. Despite these efforts, the violence continues unabated, highlighting the need for more robust international intervention and support.
https://twitter.com/breeadail/status/1914683025553530987
The situation in Kaduna State underscores the complex interplay of religious, ethnic, and economic factors driving this violence. While the Nigerian government faces criticism for its inadequate response, the international community must also play a role in advocating for and protecting these vulnerable communities. Without significant improvements in governance and security, the cycle of violence is likely to persist, further threatening Nigeria’s social fabric and stability.