The United States has renewed pressure on Nigeria to stem the cycle of violence in Plateau State following the killing of nine relatives of prominent cleric, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, warning that persistent attacks on Christian and other vulnerable communities in the Middle Belt demand urgent action.
In a strongly worded statement released on Friday, Washington described the killings as “horrific” and called on Nigerian authorities to identify and prosecute those behind the attack, while strengthening security measures to prevent a recurrence.
The US expressed sympathy with the bereaved families and said the incident underscored growing concerns over the deteriorating security situation in parts of the country.
“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,” the statement said.
It noted that the security crisis had featured in recent engagements with Nigerian officials, stressing that more decisive efforts were needed to halt recurring attacks and protect communities at risk.
The US further pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian government and international partners in tackling terrorism, countering violent extremism and promoting religious freedom.
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 infant, were killed.
Rev. Dachomo, the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, has alleged that his family has been repeatedly targeted because of his outspoken campaign against what he describes as genocide in Plateau State.
He also revealed that his grandmother and an uncle had been killed in previous attacks and claimed that shortly after burying his relatives, he received a written threat from the same militia warning that he would be their next victim.