Nigeria

Country in turmoil after bomb attacks by Islamic extremists  

Nigeria is reeling after numerous bomb attacks on churches, government buildings and police stations left hundreds dead and the country on the verge of civil war. Christians are in a state of perpetual fear for their safety.

An early morning attack on a church in Tafawa Balewa, Bauchi state, on 22 January, left at least seven Christians dead and a church building destroyed. The assault on the Evangelical Church Winning All Church was reportedly carried out by local extremists alongside members of Boko Haram. Local pastor Yunnana Yusufu reported that the assailants arrived early in the morning and began shooting at Christians. "I saw seven dead bodies of some of the Christians killed," he said.

This latest incident follows last weekend's bomb attacks in Kano, Bauchi and Tafawa Balewa, which claimed the lives of around 200 people. Rumours of further attacks continue to circulate and have amplified the fears of Christians across the north. While the initial 24-hour curfew has been relaxed, the atmosphere across the north remains tense and a mass exodus of southerners leaving Kano has now started.

Open Doors' coordinator explained that Open Doors' operations in the cities have been suspended but that they are considering how to continue planned seminars and other emergency projects in the rural areas surrounding the cities.

Open Doors is running an advocacy campaign to encourage supporters to speak up for Christians in Nigeria. To take part in the campaign go to www.opendoorsuk.org/campaign/nigeria.php

Source: Open Doors, Compass Direct News

Please pray:

  • For comfort for the bereaved and healing for the injured. Pray that Christians would have the wisdom to show restraint and the grace to forgive.
  • For protection for Open Doors workers as they move around the region to encourage and assist affected Christians.
  • For wisdom for the government in clamping down on the perpetrators of the violence. Pray that those responsible for the attacks will be brought to justice.

Source:  Open Doors