Christian communities face rising violence in Nigeria and DR Congo

Christian communities in Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are facing escalating violence and persecution. In Nigeria, reports indicate a rise in kidnappings where victims are allegedly pressured to convert to Islam. Ryan Brown of Open Doors US noted that while some violence is driven by criminal motives, religious factors remain a significant component of the crisis. The situation in Nigeria has prompted the US State Department to reclassify the country under a special concern category due to high levels of violence against Christians, particularly in the north and central regions.

In the northeastern Ituri province of the DRC, Barnabas Aid reported that at least 72 Christians were killed in a series of attacks, with some incidents involving the burning of homes. These attacks are attributed to the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP). Estimates suggest that since December 2024, ISCAP may be responsible for over 1,370 Christian deaths in the northeastern region of the country. Meanwhile, in Nigeria's Plateau State, recent attacks have resulted in at least nine deaths, including a pastor killed while traveling to a service.