The United States has strongly condemned the killing of members of the family of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo in Plateau State, describing the attack as horrific and calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.
In a statement shared on Thursday by the US State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, Washington expressed sympathy to the families of the victims and urged Nigerian authorities to intensify efforts to prevent similar attacks and ensure those behind the violence are held accountable.
The statement described the continued attacks against Christian communities and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria’s Middle Belt as deeply concerning.
The US government noted that it had recently engaged Nigerian officials on the worsening security situation and stressed the need for stronger measures to prevent further bloodshed.
According to the statement, urgent action is required to improve security, protect vulnerable communities, and bring perpetrators of violent attacks to justice.
The bureau also reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to working with the Nigerian government in addressing terrorism and violent extremism across the country, adding that every Nigerian should be free to practise their religion without fear of violence or persecution.
The condemnation follows the killing of nine members of Rev. Dachomo’s extended family, including a two-month-old baby, during a night attack on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on July 12.
The attackers reportedly asked for the pastor by name before opening fire on his relatives.
Rev. Dachomo, who serves as the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, said his family has been repeatedly targeted because of his outspoken position against the persistent violence in Plateau State.
He revealed that his grandmother and an uncle were also killed in previous attacks.
The cleric further disclosed that only days after burying his relatives, he received a written threat allegedly from the same armed group, warning that he would be their next target.
Plateau State has continued to experience recurring violence over the years, driven by a combination of farmer-herder clashes, communal disputes and attacks by armed groups. The prolonged crisis has claimed thousands of lives and displaced many residents despite increased security operations in the region.
