A US-based humanitarian organization, Equipping the Persecuted, has issued a warning of potential attacks on Christmas Day in certain communities in Nigeria’s Plateau State. The organization’s founder, Judd Saul, stated that they have received privileged information suggesting that terrorists and bandits are planning to target rural areas in Riyom, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi local government areas.
According to Saul, the terrorists have begun regrouping and are expected to launch attacks reminiscent of the simultaneous assaults that occurred between December 23rd and 25th, 2023, resulting in the massacre of over 400 people in 17 villages. Saul warned that the terrorists are gathering forces along the borders of Plateau, Nasarawa, and Benue states, and are planning to strike on Christmas Day.
The warning was made during a roundtable meeting convened by the International Committee on Nigeria and the African Jewish Alliance in Washington, D.C. Saul emphasized that his organization has reliable information about the planned attacks and is urging the Nigerian government and international authorities to take action to prevent a potential massacre.
Saul claimed to have already communicated his concerns to the Nigerian government through US lawmaker Riley Moore, who led a delegation to Nigeria to investigate allegations of Christian genocide in the country. The lawmaker is expected to file a report to the US government on the matter.
This warning comes barely a week after Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations for Barkin Ladi LGA, raised a similar alarm about planned attacks by bandits and terrorists in the state. Rev. Dachomo reported that the terrorists were gathering funds to purchase weapons in preparation for the attacks and called on local youths to defend their communities.
The warnings highlight the ongoing security concerns in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, where communities have been plagued by terrorist attacks and banditry. The Nigerian government has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with many calling for increased action to protect vulnerable communities. As Christmas approaches, the warnings serve as a reminder of the need for vigilance and cooperation between authorities to prevent further violence.
