Pope Leo XIV has condemned the recent killings in Benue State, describing the incident as a “terrible massacre” carried out with “extreme cruelty”. Speaking before the Sunday Angelus prayer at the Vatican, the pontiff expressed deep sorrow over the violence in Nigeria and offered prayers for the victims, most of whom were internally displaced persons housed by a local Catholic mission.
The attack occurred on the night of 13th to 14th June in Yelwata, a border town between Benue and Nasarawa States, where suspected terrorists reportedly killed nearly 200 people. Pope Leo described the victims as “relentless victims of violence” and specifically mentioned the suffering of rural Christian communities in Benue. He prayed for “security, justice, and peace” to be restored in the region.
Also Read: Pope Leo XIV Issues Global Plea for Peace in Second Public Appearance
In response to the killings, Amnesty International Nigeria called on authorities to halt the ongoing bloodshed and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. The organisation criticised what it described as the government’s failure to protect citizens in the face of frequent attacks in Benue State.
During his address, Pope Leo also turned attention to other global conflicts, including the war in Sudan, where a parish priest, Rev. Luke Jumu, was reportedly killed in a bombing. The pontiff renewed his call for a ceasefire and humanitarian support. He extended prayers for peace in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Myanmar, urging dialogue as the only path to lasting solutions.
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