Pope Leo on Sunday offered heartfelt prayers for the victims of what he described as a “terrible massacre” in Benue State, Nigeria, where over 200 people were brutally killed in a deadly attack in the Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area.
Speaking from St. Peter’s Square during his Sunday Angelus prayer, the Pope expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, highlighting the vulnerability of the victims many of whom were internally displaced persons (IDPs) sheltering at a local Catholic mission.
“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 massacre occurred overnight between Friday, June 13, and Saturday, June 14, 2025.
Amnesty International Nigeria initially confirmed at least 100 deaths, though local sources estimate the toll could be as high as 476 as search and recovery efforts continue.
The attack, reportedly carried out by suspected Fulani herders, began around 10:45 PM and lasted until 2:00 AM.
According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants executed a coordinated assault one group allegedly engaged police forces to create a diversion while another swept through the village, torching homes and trapping families inside. Many victims were burned alive, with numerous bodies charred beyond recognition.
In addition to the staggering loss of life, the attackers targeted and destroyed key food storage facilities. Barns filled with rice, millet, guinea corn, soya beans, maize, and locust beans were deliberately set ablaze.
The destruction is expected to deepen the region’s already precarious food insecurity.
The massacre has sparked outrage across the state. On Sunday, protesters took to the streets of Makurdi, the Benue State capital, demanding justice and urgent government intervention.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings and expressed solidarity with the grieving families.
He stated that the state government is working closely with federal security agencies, traditional leaders, and community representatives to strengthen security and prevent future attacks.
The incident marks one of the deadliest in a series of escalating attacks in Benue, a state that has long borne the brunt of herder-farmer conflicts.
