Violence Against Christians in Benue State: Congressman Riley Moore’s Accounts
On Wednesday, U.S. Congressman Riley Moore shared harrowing accounts of violence inflicted on Christian communities in Benue State, Nigeria. His revelations came following a visit to internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, where he encountered numerous displaced individuals recounting their traumatic experiences.
Heart-Wrenching Testimonies from Displaced Christians
Congressman Moore took to social media platform X to express his shock and sadness after speaking with “dozens of Christians who were driven from their homes and subjected to horrific violence.” He noted that the survivors were forced to flee their villages, leaving behind everything they knew.
During his visit, Moore heard distressing testimonies that will stay with him forever. One survivor recounted the brutal murder of her husband and five children, with only her and her unborn child managing to escape from the horrific scene.
The Impact of Violence on Families
Another individual shared a chilling story of witnessing her family’s murder, highlighting the atrocities carried out in front of her while she was helpless. Moore detailed numerous cases where families were brutally attacked, emphasizing that over 600,000 Christians are currently residing in IDP camps across Benue State.
Calls for International Attention
The Congressman urged for greater international focus on this crisis, stating, “These Christians should be able to live in their ancestral homeland without fear of genocidal Fulani.” His call to action is a plea for the global community to recognize and respond to the ongoing violence against religious minorities in Nigeria.
Engagement with Local Leaders
During his trip, Moore had the opportunity to meet influential local leaders such as Bishop Wilfred Anagbe and traditional ruler James Ioruza, discussing the implications of the ongoing violence perpetrated by armed groups. He emphasized the importance of listening to the experiences of local communities affected by these brutal attacks.
Strengthening U.S.-Nigeria Security Cooperation
Moore described his visit as a productive one, revealing discussions with Nigerian National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu regarding terrorism in Nigeria’s Northeast and the nation’s Middle Belt. He expressed hope that these dialogues could lead to actionable steps to enhance security in the region.
Addressing Diplomatic Tensions
These discussions occur against a backdrop of heightened diplomatic tensions, particularly after the U.S. government redesignated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern due to concerns over religious freedom violations. Despite the Nigerian government’s repeated denials of systemic persecution, the serious nature of the crisis has caught the attention of U.S. lawmakers.
Conclusion
As Congressman Moore highlighted the plight of displaced Christians, he reinforced that the U.S. will not ignore their experiences. His visit serves as a reminder of the urgent need for global awareness and action concerning religious violence and persecution, ensuring that communities can live free from fear.
