The United States has strongly condemned the killing of members of the family of Plateau-based cleric, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, describing the attack as a horrific act of violence and calling on Nigerian authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement released by the US Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs, Washington expressed sympathy to the victims’ families while raising concern over the continued attacks on Christian communities and other vulnerable populations in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
The US said it had recently discussed the deteriorating security situation with Nigerian officials and stressed that stronger efforts are needed to prevent similar attacks, improve community protection, and hold perpetrators accountable.
The statement also reaffirmed America’s commitment to working with Nigeria to combat terrorism and violent extremism, emphasizing that all Nigerians should be able to practise their faith and live without fear of violence.
The reaction follows the July 12 attack on Kum community in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, where nine members of Rev. Dachomo’s extended family, including a two-month-old baby, lost their lives.
According to the cleric, the attackers reportedly asked for him by name before opening fire on his relatives. Rev. Dachomo, who serves as Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, said his family has faced repeated attacks because of his outspoken criticism of the violence affecting Plateau State.
He revealed that his grandmother and an uncle were killed in earlier attacks and said he recently received another death threat warning that he would be the next target.
Plateau State has witnessed years of recurring violence linked to farmer-herder disputes, communal tensions, and attacks by armed groups. The conflict has claimed thousands of lives, displaced many families, and remains one of Nigeria’s most persistent security challenges despite repeated military and government interventions.
