Pope Leo Prays For Victims Of ‘Terrible Massacre’ In Nigeria’s Benue State.
In a heartfelt address before delivering the Sunday Angelus prayer on 15 June 2025, Pope Leo expressed profound sorrow for the victims of a “terrible massacre” in Yelwata, located in the Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The pontiff revealed that around 200 people, predominantly internally displaced persons sheltered by a local Catholic mission, were “brutally killed” during the night of 13-14 June.
Speaking with deep compassion, Pope Leo prayed for “security, justice, and peace” in Nigeria, with a particular focus on the “rural Christian communities of Benue State who have been relentless victims of violence”. His words underscored the ongoing plight of vulnerable populations in the region, which has faced recurrent attacks.
The massacre has drawn international condemnation, with Amnesty International Nigeria issuing a statement on Saturday, urging Nigerian authorities to “immediately end the almost daily bloodshed in Benue State and bring the actual perpetrators to justice”. The organisation’s call highlights the urgent need for action to address the escalating violence and ensure accountability.
The tragedy in Yelwata has sent shockwaves through Nigeria and beyond, renewing calls for measures to protect displaced communities and tackle the root causes of such violence. As the nation mourns, Pope Leo’s prayers and the global outcry serve as a poignant reminder of the need for solidarity and justice in the face of such atrocities.
