United States Representative Anna Paulina Luna has expressed concerns over recent attacks on Christian communities in Plateau State, Nigeria. In a post on her verified social media account, Luna alleged that armed groups have continued to target civilians, while security agencies struggle to contain the violence. She tagged US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz in the post, describing the situation as a serious security concern.
Luna claimed that Christian communities in Plateau have come under repeated attacks by Fulani ethnic militia terrorists and Islamist extremists, leaving thousands of residents in danger. According to her, hundreds of Fulani ethnic militia terrorists descended on Christian communities across Plateau State, and thousands of civilians are under mortal threat while Nigerian security forces try to protect vulnerable communities.
The lawmaker further alleged that the recent violence is not an isolated incident, citing previous attacks that targeted civilians and religious figures. A pastor and his church secretary were shot dead on their way to church, five Christians were ambushed in their car, a civilian guard was killed outside his home, and a man and his son were beaten and left in critical condition.
Luna questioned the response of security agencies to warnings reportedly issued before some of the incidents, alleging that authorities received security alerts but failed to act sufficiently before the attacks occurred. Her comments come amid renewed security concerns in Plateau State, where several communities have suffered deadly attacks in recent months.
The violence in Plateau State has affected rural settlements in areas including Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi. On August 18, armed attackers invaded Binper community in Kombun District of Mangu Local Government Area, killing over 20 people and injuring or leaving others unaccounted for. The Plateau State Government later confirmed 24 deaths in the incident.
The Nigeria Police Force has responded to attacks in Plateau with additional deployments, including the deployment of additional security assets and directing that those responsible be arrested. However, allegations concerning the identity and motivation of attackers in Plateau have remained contentious, with the Plateau chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria warning against attributing crimes to Fulani people without credible evidence.
The issue of violence against Christians has attracted international attention, particularly from politicians and advocacy groups in the United States. Former US President Donald Trump commended President Bola Tinubu over steps taken to combat violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria. More than 50 Christian and Muslim leaders in Nigeria have also signed an interfaith peace accord aimed at promoting religious harmony and reducing tensions.
Key points
- US Rep. Anna Paulina Luna raises concerns over attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria's Plateau State.
- Luna calls for urgent action to address the violence, which has left thousands of residents in danger.
- The violence in Plateau State has affected rural settlements, with over 20 people killed in a recent attack on Binper community.
