Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The United States has issued a strong condemnation of the killing of nine members of the family of Plateau-based cleric, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, describing the attack as "horrific" and urging Nigerian authorities to ensure those responsible are swiftly brought to justice. In a statement posted on its official channels on Thursday, July 23, 2026, the US Bureau of African Affairs expressed deep concern over the persistent violence targeting Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria's Middle Belt. The condemnation follows the overnight attack on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State on July 12, 2026, during which nine members of Dachomo's extended family, including a two-month-old baby, were massacred.
The US statement, which was shared on X (formerly Twitter) and the US Mission in Nigeria's official Facebook page, extended condolences to the victims' families and all those affected by the attack. The Bureau noted that discussions had already been held with Nigerian officials on the worsening security situation, stressing the need for stronger measures to prevent further attacks and protect Christians and other vulnerable communities. "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 US further insisted that urgent action is needed to prevent a repeat of such attacks, adding: "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 United States reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Nigerian government and partners to combat terrorism, counter violent extremism, and ensure that Christians and all Nigerians can practise their faith freely without fear of violence or persecution.
The attack on Kum community was reportedly carried out by gunmen linked to Fulani militias, who allegedly asked for the pastor by name before opening fire on his relatives. Dachomo, who serves as the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations for Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, has alleged that his family has been repeatedly targeted because of his outspoken campaign against what he described as the ongoing genocide in Plateau State. He recounted that his grandmother and an uncle had also been killed in separate attacks carried out by extremists.
The cleric further disclosed that shortly after burying his relatives, he received a written threat from the same militia group, warning that he would be their next target. Dachomo had previously told media outlets that his family had been under attack because of his campaign against what he sees as a genocide in the state. Plateau State has for years witnessed recurring bloodletting driven by a mix of farmer-herder disputes, communal tensions and attacks by armed groups, with thousands killed and displaced despite increased security deployments in the region. The US condemnation adds to growing international pressure on the Nigerian government to address the escalating violence in the Middle Belt, while Dachomo and his surviving family members remain in fear, awaiting the promised protection from authorities.
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