Pope Leo has offered prayers for the victims of a devastating massacre in Benue State, where more than 45 people were reportedly killed in attacks on rural communities.
The Pope described the violence as “particularly devastating,” noting that most of the victims were internally displaced persons sheltered by a local Catholic mission at Yelwata in the Guma Local Government Area.
Delivering his remarks just before the Sunday Angelus prayer, the Pope expressed deep concern for Nigeria, praying for peace and security in the country.
He highlighted the vulnerability of rural Christian communities in Benue, saying, “I pray that security, justice, and peace will prevail in Nigeria, a beloved country so affected by various forms of violence.”
The Pope also remembered victims of ongoing conflicts in Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, and the Middle East during the Angelus address, emphasizing the need for global peace and security.
“And I pray in a special way for the rural Christian communities in Benue State, who have been unceasingly the victims of violence,” he added.
Persecondnews reports that the Pope’s prayers come as angry youths in Benue State took to the streets to protest the alleged killing of scores of residents by suspected herdsmen in Yelwata.
The protesters converged on the Wurukum food basket roundabout in Makurdi, demanding action from the government over the alleged atrocities.
“We are angry at the deafening silence of the federal government and the governor of Benue State despite the killing of children, women, and the elderly,” said Solomon Amande, one of the protesters.
The protesters resisted an attempt by the Deputy Governor, Mr. Sam Ode, to address them, insisting that Governor Hyacinth Alia should come personally to address their concerns.
The situation escalated when armed policemen and soldiers attempted to stop the protesters, leading to the use of tear gas.
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