The United States has strongly condemned the killing of members of the family of Plateau-based cleric Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, describing the attack as “horrific” and calling on Nigerian authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The United States government has condemned the killing of members of the family of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo in Plateau State, urging Nigerian authorities to hold the perpetrators accountable and strengthen efforts to protect vulnerable communities.
In a statement issued by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs on Thursday, Washington described the attack as “horrific” and expressed condolences to the bereaved families and all those affected by the violence.
‘Perpetrators Must Be Held Accountable’
The U.S. Bureau of African Affairs said it was deeply concerned by the continued violence affecting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
According to the statement:
“The United States strongly condemns the horrific killing of members of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo’s family in Plateau State, Nigeria. The continued violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria’s Middle Belt is deeply alarming.”
The bureau added that those responsible for the attack must be identified and prosecuted.
Calls for Stronger Security Measures
The U.S. said it had already engaged Nigerian officials on the worsening security situation and urged authorities to intensify efforts to prevent further attacks.
It also called for improved protection for vulnerable communities and stressed the importance of ensuring justice for victims of recurring violence in Plateau State and other parts of Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Renewed International Attention
The latest statement adds to growing international concern over insecurity in Plateau State, where repeated attacks have claimed numerous lives in recent months.
Rev. Dachomo, a senior cleric of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), has repeatedly raised concerns about attacks on communities in the state and recently disclosed that several members of his extended family were killed in an assault.
Nigerian Authorities Yet to Issue Detailed Response
As of the time of filing this report, the Federal Government had not issued a detailed response to the U.S. statement.
Security agencies, however, have continued operations in Plateau State as investigations into the attack proceed.