Violence against Nigerian pastor Dachomo

In mid‑July 2026 Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, a regional leader of the Church of Christ in Nations, received a death‑threat letter he linked to suspected Fulani herders after nine of his relatives were killed in attacks in Plateau State’s Middle Belt.

The United States Department of State condemned the murders, urging the Nigerian government to bring the perpetrators to justice, improve security for vulnerable groups and protect Christian communities. On 24 July the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs described the night‑time assault on the Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area on 12 July as a “deeply alarming example” of violence against Christians, blamed armed gunmen believed to be linked to a Fulani militia, and called on Nigerian authorities to hold those responsible accountable, strengthen security and safeguard at‑risk populations.

On 28 July, Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia reiterated the condemnation, characterising the July 11 killings of nine of Dachomo’s extended family members as “deeply alarming” and part of a broader wave of attacks on Christian communities in the Middle Belt. He urged Nigerian authorities to strengthen security, hold the perpetrators accountable and protect vulnerable groups, while reaffirming U.S. commitment to work with Nigeria to counter terrorism and ensure religious freedom. The statement noted heightened international attention after former President Donald Trump reposted a video in which Rev. Dachomo appealed for U.S. intervention.