Bishop Wilfred Anagbe of the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi, Benue State, has testified before the United States Congress, warning of a silent yet escalating campaign of extermination targeted at Christians in Nigeria. He urged the global community to intervene urgently, citing a significant escalation of violence against Christian communities in the Middle Belt and other regions.

During the congressional hearing, Bishop Anagbe stated that the crisis has worsened since his previous appearance before the lawmakers six months ago. He noted that attacks by armed militias on predominantly Christian communities have continued, resulting in increased violence and displacement. The Bishop recalled a recent invasion of his community in Gwer West Local Government Area, where members of his extended family were murdered, and a clergyman was shot and left for dead.

Bishop Anagbe also referenced the Yelwata massacre, which resulted in the deaths of over 178 people, and criticized the Nigerian government for downplaying the incident and failing to provide adequate care for survivors. He further highlighted the persistence of kidnappings of clergy, including a recent incident where a priest from Kaduna Archdiocese was kidnapped, and his brother was shot dead.

The Bishop accused the Nigerian government of failing to confront the violence, leaving Christian communities feeling abandoned. He appreciated the United States for renewed global attention and called for stronger measures to address the crisis, including legislation to hold perpetrators accountable and support for internally displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes.

During the hearing, U.S. Congresswoman Sara Jacobs criticized the Trump administration’s posture on the crisis, arguing that the complexity of the violence is being oversimplified. She opposed the former president’s threat of military action against Nigeria, stating that it is reckless and illegal, and instead called on the Nigerian government to step up efforts to secure its population.

The hearing highlights the ongoing concerns about Christian persecution in Nigeria and the need for urgent international attention. The situation continues to deteriorate, with millions displaced and farmlands destroyed, exacerbating hunger and creating a humanitarian crisis. The international community is being called upon to take stronger measures to address the crisis and hold perpetrators accountable.