Pope Leo Prays for Nigeria Amidst Benue Killings, Calls for Security, Justice, and Peace

Pope Leo XIV has expressed profound sorrow and offered fervent prayers for Nigeria, specifically calling for security, justice, and peace to prevail in Benue State following a “terrible massacre.” The pontiff’s heartfelt message came during his Sunday Angelus prayer, drawing global attention to the ongoing violence in the West African nation.

Pope Leo prayed for the victims of an attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, where approximately 200 people were brutally killed. Many of the victims were internally displaced persons who had sought refuge within a local Catholic mission, underscoring the tragic impact of the violence on vulnerable communities.

During his address, the Pope specifically mentioned the “rural Christian communities of the Benue State who have been relentless victims of violence.” His prayers for security, justice, and peace in Nigeria reflect a deep concern for the persistent insecurity that has plagued the region.

The Pope’s appeal is a significant intervention, drawing the world’s attention to the plight of communities in Benue and other conflict-affected areas. He emphasized the universal call for an end to bloodshed and for perpetrators of violence to be brought to justice.

Beyond Nigeria, Pope Leo also extended his prayers for peace to other global conflict zones, including Sudan, Myanmar, Ukraine, and the Middle East, highlighting the widespread need for dialogue and humanitarian aid. His message on this occasion underscored the Catholic Church’s consistent advocacy for peace and human dignity in the face of widespread suffering.

The pontiff’s prayer for Nigeria comes at a time when human rights organizations, including Amnesty International Nigeria, have renewed calls for Nigerian authorities to decisively end the persistent violence in Benue State and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.