Nigeria (MNN) — Fulani militants recently killed 18 Christians in a late-night assault in central Nigeria. Greg Musselman with The Voice of the Martyrs Canada says the persecution so prevalent in northern Nigeria is steadily creeping south.

“We’ve talked a lot about all the attacks in these Christian villages in the north, but it’s also happening a lot in the Middle Belt and further into the south,” Musselman says.

Nothing is standing in the persecutors’ way, and they have much to gain by targeting religious minorities.

(Photo courtesy of Voice of the Martyrs Canada)

“These attacks are spreading across the country, and the violence is getting out of control. The government doesn’t seem to help protect it. In this most recent case, in Benue state, by the time the military and soldiers arrived, 18 people had already been killed,” Musselman says.

“It’s not only the Islamic part in converting Christians to Islam but also intimidation and grabbing the [Christians’] land.”

The situation may seem unchangeable, but you can help these persecuted Christians. VOM Canada supports various projects and partners in Nigeria, providing everything from medical aid and job training to biblical trauma counseling.

Connect with VOM Canada here to get involved. Most importantly, pray. “These are real people in real time,” Musselman says.

“Many Christians have seen their pastors killed; the intimidation goes on. We can’t lose that passion to be praying for them.”

 

Header and story images courtesy of VOM Canada.