Yelwata massacre

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The Yelwata massacre was a massacre of Christian villagers which took place between June 13 and 14, 2025 in the Nigerian village of Yelwata. [1] It is estimated that around 100 to 200 people were killed and about 3,000 were displaced. [2] [3]

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Attack

The attack began during the night of June 13, 2025. [2] According to Pope Leo XIV, "the majority of those killed were internally displaced people who were being housed at a local Catholic mission." [4]

Aftermath

After the attacks, Nigerian president Bola Tinubu promised to visit the Benue region. [2] Pope Leo XIV denounced the attacks, saying "I pray in particular for the rural Christian communities in the state of Benue, who have unceasingly been victims of violence." [4]

The Free Press criticized mainstream news outlets for either ignoring the massacre, or reporting it without mentioning the fact that the massacre was perpetrated by Muslims against Christians. [5]

References

  1. ↑ Chimtom, Ngala Killian. "Prayers for victims of 'terrible massacre' in Nigeria". The Tablet. Retrieved 16 July 2025.
  2. 1 2 3 Achirga, Abraham (17 June 2025). "Charred bodies, shattered lives after gunmen kill 100 in Nigeria". Reuters. Retrieved 16 July 2025.
  3. ↑ Shibayan, Dyepkazah (14 June 2025). "At least 100 people killed by gunmen in north-central Nigeria, rights group says". AP News. Retrieved 16 July 2025.
  4. 1 2 "The Pope's words at the Angelus prayer". press.vatican.va. Retrieved 16 July 2025.
  5. ↑ Kearns, Madeleine (6 June 2025). "As Christians Are Slaughtered, the World Looks Away". The Free Press. Retrieved 16 July 2025.