The United States has strongly condemned the killing of nine members of Plateau State cleric Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo’s extended family — including a two-month-old baby — during an overnight attack in Riyom Local Government Area, calling for urgent security action and accountability for perpetrators.
Washington has weighed in — and the language is unambiguous.
The United States on Friday issued a strong condemnation of the killing of nine members of the family of Plateau State cleric Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, describing the violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria’s Middle Belt as “deeply alarming” and demanding that perpetrators be brought to justice without delay.
In a statement cited by Tribune, the US said: “The continued violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria’s Middle Belt is deeply alarming. The perpetrators must be held accountable, and urgent action is needed to strengthen security and protect Christians and other vulnerable communities.”
Washington disclosed that it had recently held discussions with Nigerian officials on the deteriorating security situation, reaffirming its commitment to working with Nigeria to combat terrorism, counter violent extremism and ensure that all Nigerians can practise their faith without fear.
The condemnation follows the July 12 overnight attack on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area, in which nine members of Dachomo’s extended family were killed — among them a two-month-old baby. Dachomo serves as Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations for Barkin Ladi Local Government Area.
The cleric said his family has repeatedly been targeted because of his vocal campaign against what he describes as genocide in Plateau State. He also revealed that his grandmother and an uncle were killed in separate earlier attacks carried out by extremists.
In a chilling development, Dachomo disclosed that shortly after burying his nine relatives, he received a written threat from the same militia warning that he would be their next target.
The US extended condolences to the bereaved families and urged Nigerian authorities to take concrete steps to prevent further attacks and protect vulnerable communities across the Middle Belt.
No arrests have been publicly announced in connection with the July 12 attack.
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