By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Father Ukuma Jonathan, a young priest in Nigeria’s Benue State, has emerged from one of the country’s deadliest massacres of Christians with a firm resolve to remain and rebuild his shattered community. The massacre in Yelewata claimed the lives of over 200 people, with recent discoveries of bodies in isolated locations underscoring the horror of the attack.
Despite narrowly escaping death himself and facing the trauma of the violence, Father Jonathan reported that only about 20 parishioners attended Mass just days after the massacre—a steep decline from the usual 500—due to the death or displacement of many community members. He expressed unwavering commitment to staying in Yelewata to restore the parish and support the survivors and internally displaced persons (IDPs) who still consider the town their home.
The priest emphasized the need for enhanced security measures, including the establishment of a military presence near the volatile border between Benue and Nasarawa States, to enable displaced families to return safely. He also called for prayers, justice, and peace, urging the government to thoroughly address the root causes of the violence.
General Christopher Musa, Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff, indicated possible insider involvement in the attacks, highlighting concerns about compromised security. In response to the massacre, the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria has called for a nine-day national prayer campaign, encouraging the faithful and people of goodwill to pray for peace, healing, justice, and the conversion of those responsible.
Father Jonathan’s steadfast commitment embodies the resilience of a community devastated yet determined to overcome persecution, seeking divine support.
