Pope Leo has spoken out against the brutal massacre in Nigeria’s Benue State, where over 200 people were reportedly killed in one of the deadliest attacks the region has seen.
During his Sunday, June 15, Angelus prayer, the Pope described the incident as a “terrible massacre,” expressing deep concern over the scale of the violence.
According to reports, most of the victims were internally displaced persons who had sought safety in a local Catholic mission in the Yelewata community of Guma Local Government Area.
“I am praying for security, justice, and peace in Nigeria,” Pope Leo said from St. Peter’s Square, addressing thousands of faithful gathered in Vatican City.
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“In a special way, I am thinking of the rural Christian communities of Benue State, who have been relentless victims of violence,” he added.
The Pope’s remarks come amid renewed international focus on rising insecurity in parts of Nigeria, where attacks on rural communities have continued with little reprieve.
His words are a call for not just prayers, but meaningful action to end the bloodshed and protect vulnerable lives.