Pope Leo XIV Denounces Benue Massacre, Calls for Peace and Justice in Nigeria

Pope Leo XIV Denounces Benue Massacre, Calls for Peace and Justice in Nigeria

Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned the recent massacre in Benue State, Nigeria, where about 200 lives were lost in an attack by suspected armed herdsmen. He offered prayers for peace, justice, and lasting security in the region.

In a statement shared via the Vatican News X (formerly Twitter) handle, the Pope described the incident in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, as a “terrible massacre.” He noted with sorrow that many of the victims were internally displaced persons sheltering at a local Catholic mission.

Addressing the faithful before the Sunday Angelus prayer, the Pope voiced deep concern for the Christian rural communities in Benue, emphasizing that they have long endured repeated waves of violence.

In response, Amnesty International Nigeria has called on the Nigerian government to take urgent and decisive action to end the bloodshed and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.