US Condemns Killing of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo’s Family in Nigeria’s Plateau State

The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs issued a statement condemning the horrific killing of nine members of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo’s family in Plateau State, Nigeria. The statement described the attack as a deeply alarming example of the ongoing violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable groups in the country’s Middle Belt. Washington extended its condolences to the victims’ families and urged Nigerian authorities to hold the perpetrators accountable, strengthen security, and protect Christians and other at‑risk populations. The bureau reaffirmed U.S. commitment to work with the Nigerian government and international partners to combat terrorism and violent extremism. The killings occurred in a night‑time assault on the Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area on 12 July, reportedly carried out by armed gunmen believed to be linked to a Fulani militia. The victims included a two‑month‑old baby, and the cleric, a regional chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations, said his family had been repeatedly targeted because of his outspoken criticism of regional violence. The U.S. statement was posted on official X and Facebook accounts after recent discussions with Nigerian officials about the deteriorating security situation.