The Christian Rights Agenda (CRA) has raised a red flag over the increasing violence and insurgent activities in Benue, Plateau, and other parts of northern Nigeria, revealing that more than 80 communities have now fallen under the control of Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
In a statement released on Sunday, the Secretary-General of CRA, Reverend Dikwa, warned of a coordinated campaign by insurgents to destabilize the region, impose religious intolerance, and create widespread anarchy. According to CRA, the recent uptick in violence reflects a strategic effort by ISWAP to take over communities, leaving in its wake destruction, displacement, and loss of life.
“Our teams have been deployed to Benue, Plateau, and Borno to collect firsthand evidence of this growing humanitarian disaster,” Reverend Dikwa said. “The attacks are systematic, organized, and aim at completely wiping out Christian communities.”
The alarming development comes after a series of terror attacks by the insurgents, who have reportedly seized over 80 communities across the region. As a result, thousands of residents have been displaced, with many fleeing for safety amidst fears for their lives. CRA also raised concerns over the rising number of casualties, including women, children, and the elderly.
The group described the ongoing attacks as “genocide” and accused Nigerian governors of politicizing the crisis instead of addressing its root causes directly. “Communities are being wiped out, homes burnt to ashes, and innocent lives lost. It is no longer a matter of political rhetoric, but of national urgency,” the CRA said.
The organisation has begun compiling a database of the attacks to highlight the ongoing persecution of Christians in the affected regions, pledging to keep the international community informed about the deepening crisis.
**Security Measures and Government Response**
While CRA commended President Bola Tinubu for directing security agencies to take action against the insurgents, it emphasized the importance of implementing these orders effectively. CRA warned that if security agencies fail to act decisively, the situation could worsen, and the number of communities under terrorist control could increase.
The CRA stressed that stronger measures and stricter accountability are needed, as the ongoing violence threatens to destabilize Nigeria further. The group also called for sanctions against security personnel who fail to deliver on their duties.
“The government must show true commitment by taking concrete steps to restore peace and order in the affected states. The lives of innocent civilians depend on it,” said Reverend Dikwa.
**Calls for Immediate Action**
CRA’s call for urgent action echoes growing concerns among local communities and human rights groups. With attacks on Christian communities intensifying, many fear the situation will worsen if the government does not act swiftly. The group warned that continued inaction could lead to the further fragmentation of Nigeria, destabilizing entire regions and fueling a broader sociopolitical crisis.
The group also expressed disappointment with some state governors, accusing them of downplaying the seriousness of the attacks. They emphasized that it is time for political leaders to rise above political interests and confront the issue head-on.
“While political rhetoric continues, communities are being decimated. This is no longer just an internal security issue; it is a humanitarian crisis that demands international attention,” CRA asserted.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the CRA urged the federal government to take swift and decisive action to prevent further killings, displacement, and destruction in the region.
The group is also calling on the international community to support efforts to protect the rights of Christians and other vulnerable groups who are increasingly caught in the crossfire of the insurgency.
