The Fellowship of Christian Councils and Churches in West Africa (FECCIWA) has issued a strong condemnation following the recent killing of over 200 civilians in Benue State, Nigeria.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by its Advisory Committee Chairman, Bishop Godson Kpavuvu Lawson, the regional ecumenical body described the massacre as “horrific and senseless,” expressing solidarity with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), both of which have also called for urgent action.
“These repeated attacks have caused unimaginable pain, trauma, and suffering,” the statement reads. “The growing frequency and brutality of such violence must no longer be tolerated.”
FECCIWA is now calling on the Nigerian government and security agencies to go beyond verbal condemnations and take “immediate and decisive action” to safeguard lives in the region. The group stressed that only coordinated and sustained efforts can break the cycle of violence and restore public trust.
“Justice must prevail. The perpetrators of these heinous crimes must be apprehended and held accountable,” said Bishop Lawson, adding that the sanctity of life must be preserved at all costs.
Benue State, in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, has been a flashpoint for deadly clashes in recent years, often involving tensions between farming communities and armed groups. The latest attack, which reportedly occurred over the weekend, is among the deadliest in recent times.
FECCIWA also extended condolences to the affected families and communities, expressing hopes for healing and peace. “We continue to uphold Nigeria in prayer and solidarity,” the statement concludes. “Stop the violence. Stop the killings. Let peace prevail.”
