A new report by the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has claimed that Fulani militants were responsible for more deaths in Nigeria over the past year than both Boko Haram and Islamic State, with attacks reportedly concentrated on predominantly Christian farming communities.
According to the report, violence linked to Fulani militant groups has continued to pose a major security and humanitarian challenge, particularly in Nigeria’s Middle Belt region, where recurring clashes and attacks have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.
Reacting to the findings, Henrietta Blyth, Chief Executive Officer of Open Doors, expressed concern over the impact of the violence on affected communities.
“My heart has been broken as I have heard stories from women and men who have seen their beloved family members butchered in front of them or carried off into a life of slavery,” Blyth said.
The USCIRF report highlights ongoing concerns about religious freedom, security, and the protection of vulnerable communities in Nigeria, calling attention to the human cost of persistent violence in several parts of the country.
Nigeria has faced multiple security challenges in recent years, including insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts, with both government authorities and international organizations continuing efforts to address the crisis and improve protection for affected populations.
