Vatican City – Pope Leo has expressed deep sorrow over the recent mass killing in Benue State, Nigeria, where over 200 people were reportedly murdered in a brutal attack by suspected herdsmen.
The victims, many of whom were internally displaced persons (IDPs), were sheltering at a Catholic mission in the Yelewata community of Guma Local Government Area when the attackers struck. The incident marks one of the deadliest episodes in the ongoing wave of violence that has plagued the region.
Addressing thousands of faithful during his Angelus prayer on Sunday at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff described the event as a “terrible massacre,” and called for urgent action to restore peace and security.
“I am praying for security, justice, and peace in Nigeria,” Pope Leo said. “In a special way, I am thinking of the rural Christian communities of Benue State, who have been relentless victims of violence.”
The Pope’s remarks underscore growing international concern over persistent attacks on vulnerable communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where sectarian and land-related conflicts have led to thousands of deaths and displacements in recent years.
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