Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Minna (Agenzia Fides) - "What happened in Makurdi is truly horrible," said the Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Minna, Luka Sylvester Gopep, to Fides, in a commentary on the massacre that occurred on the night of June 13-14 in Benue State (see Fides, 16/6/2025).
Speaking to Fides, Bishop Gopep does not hide his deep sadness when speaking of this tragic, umpteenth episode of violence that has struck the country.
"It is inexplicable that such cruelty was inflicted on hundreds of people. It is difficult to understand why the Fulani herdsmen who perpetrated the massacre acted in this way," said Bishop Gopep. "The fact is that Makurdi is a predominantly Christian area, and the Fulani nomads are predominantly Muslims from the northern part of the country, while Makurdi is located in the center of the Country. The Diocese of Minna in Niger State lies between two dioceses before reaching Makurdi: the Archdiocese of Abuja and the Diocese of Lafiya. Last May 29, the area of Minna was hit by severe floods that left more than 200 dead and thousands displaced, including more than 1,000 children."
The prelate also announced that Bola Ahmed Adekunle Tinubu, President of Nigeria since May 29, 2023, is expected in Makurdi today, June 18, 2025. (AP) (Agenzia Fides, 18/6/2025)
