The United States has condemned the killing of nine members of the family of Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo in Plateau State, describing the attack as “horrific” and calling for those responsible to be brought to justice.
In a statement posted on X on Thursday, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs expressed condolences to the victims’ families and urged the Nigerian authorities to strengthen security, prevent further attacks and hold the perpetrators accountable.
The bureau said the continued violence against Christian communities and other vulnerable groups in Nigeria’s Middle Belt was “deeply alarming”. It added that Washington remained committed to working with the Nigerian government to combat terrorism and violent extremism, while insisting that Christians and other Nigerians must be able to practise their faith without fear.
Nine members of Dachomo’s extended family, including a two-month-old baby, were killed in an overnight attack on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on July 12.
The gunmen, believed to be linked to Fulani militias, reportedly asked for the pastor by name before opening fire on his relatives.
Days after burying his relatives, Dachomo disclosed that the same militia sent him a written death threat, warning that he would be next after killing nine members of his family.