-Pope Leo XIV Condemns Killing In Benue State Nigeria
The Head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, condemns and has offered prayers for the rural Christian communities affected by the recent killing in Benue State.
It was reported that around 200 people were “brutally killed” in Yelwata, in the Guma Local Government Area on the night of the 13th and14th of June, 2025.
The Chairman of Guma Local Government Area, Maurice Orwough, confirmed the incident, stating that dozens had been killed and over 26 others hospitalised.
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“They initially attempted to attack Daudu, but were repelled by the military. Sadly, they later regrouped and moved towards Yelwata, where over 100 armed herdsmen opened fire on civilians,” he said.
The Pope lamented that majority of the victims were internally displaced persons hosted by the local Catholic mission.
“I pray that security, justice and peace will prevail in Nigeria, a beloved country afflicted by various forms of violence. And I pray in particular for the rural Christian communities of Benue State, who are incessant victims of violence,” The Pope said.
The killing is one of the deadliest in a series of herders-related attacks that have long afflicted the State, fueling conflict between farming communities and armed groups.
