US calls for swift action after Plateau pastor’s family massacre

The United States (US) has denounced the killing of members of the family of Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo in Plateau State, describing the attack as a shocking act of violence and urging the Nigerian government to ensure those responsible face justice.

In a statement published on its official X account on Thursday, the US State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs expressed sympathy to the bereaved families and called for stronger efforts to safeguard vulnerable communities from further attacks.

“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 statement read.

The bureau disclosed that the issue had already featured in discussions with Nigerian officials, stressing that preventing future attacks must become an immediate priority.

“As I discussed last week with Nigerian officials, we must do more to prevent violent acts like those yesterday.

“The perpetrators must be held accountable, and urgent action is needed to strengthen security and protect Christians and other vulnerable communities,” the statement added.

Washington reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside Nigeria in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, while maintaining that every Nigerian should be free to practise his or her faith without intimidation or fear.

The victims were among nine members of Reverend Dachomo’s extended family killed during a night-time assault on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area on 12 July. A two-month-old baby was also among those murdered.

According to Dachomo, who serves as Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, the attackers asked for him by name before turning their guns on his relatives. He believes the attack was connected to his outspoken criticism of the sustained violence in Plateau State, which he has repeatedly described as genocide.

The cleric revealed that the tragedy was not the first to hit his family. He said his grandmother and an uncle had previously been killed in separate attacks by extremists.

He also disclosed that shortly after the burial of his relatives, he received a written death threat from the same militia, warning that he would be their next target after killing nine members of his family.

Plateau State has continued to experience recurring violence fuelled by farmer-herder conflicts, communal disputes and attacks by armed groups. Despite repeated security operations, the unrest has claimed thousands of lives and forced many residents from their homes.