The United States government has condemned the killing of family members of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo in Plateau State, describing the attack as horrific and calling for those responsible to be brought to justice. In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the US Mission in Nigeria expressed concern over the continued violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
US calls for accountability
The mission extended its condolences to the families of the victims and others affected by the attack. The statement read: “The United States strongly condemns the horrific killing of members of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo’s family in Plateau State, Nigeria. The continued violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria’s Middle Belt is deeply alarming. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ families and all those affected. As I discussed last week with Nigerian officials, we must do more to prevent violent acts like those yesterday. The perpetrators must be held accountable, and urgent action is needed to strengthen security and protect Christians and other vulnerable communities. The United States remains committed to working with the Nigerian government and our partners to combat terrorism, counter violent extremism, and ensure that Christians and all Nigerians can live and practice their faith freely without fear of violence or persecution.”
Details of the attack
The statement followed the July 12 attack on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, where nine members of Rev. Dachomo’s extended family, including a two-month-old baby, were killed. According to the cleric, the attackers, believed to be armed Fulani militias, asked for him by name before opening fire on his relatives.
Targeted for outspoken criticism
Dachomo, who serves as Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, said his family had repeatedly been targeted because of his outspoken criticism of the violence in Plateau State. He recalled that his grandmother and an uncle were also killed in previous attacks, adding that days after burying his relatives, he received a written death threat from the same group, warning that he would be their next target.
