US Missionary Alleges Targeted Killings of Pastor's Relatives
Alex Barbir, founder of Building Zion and a United States-based missionary, has publicly condemned the killing of nine relatives of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, the Regional Leader of the Church of Christ in Nations, in Plateau State. In a post on X on Friday, July 17, Barbir described the attack as an act of terrorism against Christian communities, alleging that the victims were 'hunted and slaughtered by Fulani terrorists.' He accused the global Church and the international community of turning a blind eye to the violence.
Barbir Criticizes Silence of Global Church and International Community
Barbir wrote, 'This is not fiction. A Nigerian pastor, a brother of mine, has nine members of his family hunted and slaughtered by Fulani terrorists.' He further lamented the abandonment of Nigerian Christians: 'These are the realities our Nigerian brothers and sisters are facing alone. The church is absent. International community is absent. They are being hunted and slaughtered like animals and we in the West are simply watching.'
Missionary Vows to Speak Out Despite Burnout
Barbir expressed frustration and declared he could no longer remain silent. 'I am tired. I am sick of it. I am beyond burned. Who will be the one to stand at such a time as this? I refuse to be silent, I refuse to watch,' he stated. He also disclosed that Building Zion has been involved in reconstruction efforts in communities affected by the violence, including areas tied to Rev. Dachomo. 'We are rebuilding communities ravished by terrorists, restoring hope and life. In fact, we have already rebuilt communities in Reverend Ezekiel's community,' he said.
Details of the July 11 Attack on Riyom Communities
The attack occurred on the night of July 11, when suspected gunmen stormed the Kuoom and Wereng-Camp communities in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State at approximately 11:30 p.m. Residents said the attackers opened fire indiscriminately, killing nine members of a single family, including a two-month-old infant. The local village head also sustained critical injuries in the assault.
Pastor Reports Threatening Letter After Killings
Rev. Dachomo alleged that those killed were his relatives, a claim that could not be independently verified. He further stated that he and his church members received a threatening letter, written in both Hausa and English, days after the killings, warning that he would be targeted next. He said copies of the letter had been submitted to security agencies.
Previous Violence in Plateau State
In a separate incident previously reported, two herdsmen were attacked and killed in Talma village, Ngel District of Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, as the victims were heading to their cattle pen.
