HORROR! ! Massive Fear BREAK Out In Nigeria As Fresh BOMB BLAST Rocks Northern Churches- See Details
As Christmas approaches, fear of potential terror attacks has left Christian communities across northern Nigeria uneasy, with insecurity undermining festive preparations. States such as Niger, Zamfara, Borno, and Kaduna remain on high alert due to recent incidents of violence, including bombings and banditry, which have heightened anxiety among residents and disrupted seasonal traditions.
In Niger State, landmine explosions in the Shiroro Local Government Area recently claimed three lives, including that of a child. Zamfara faced a similar tragedy earlier this month when explosives planted by bandits in Dansadau district caused casualties and panic. Meanwhile, Borno State witnessed an attack in Kawuri, near Maiduguri, where 19 people lost their lives, and 20 others sustained injuries in an assault allegedly orchestrated by Boko Haram insurgents.
Given the heightened insecurity, churches in Kaduna and other northern states have chosen to scale back their Christmas celebrations. Pastor John Oyebanji of the Church of Grace in Kaduna confirmed that their services would be subdued, with minimal decorations and an emphasis on vigilance. Southern Kaduna communities, including Kajuru and Zangon Kataf, are also approaching the festive season with caution, prioritizing safety over elaborate celebrations.
Plateau State residents, still reeling from a deadly attack on Christmas Eve last year, remain anxious. Although the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Plateau could not be reached for comment, community leader Michael Bitrus has called on the government to enhance security measures for the holiday period.
In response to these concerns, state governments and security agencies have assured the public of increased protection. The Zamfara State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 550 personnel to guard worship centers, while police in Plateau and other states have pledged to maintain order during the celebrations. However, recent threats from bandit leaders, including Bello Turji, who vowed retaliation following the arrest of his ally, continue to fuel fears.
Beyond insecurity, economic hardship is another factor dampening the holiday spirit. In Maiduguri, Borno State, many families are struggling to afford traditional Christmas festivities. Resident Jonah Plankat noted, ” We’ ll attend church, eat what we can, and spend time quietly with loved ones. ”
For internally displaced persons (IDPs) in camps across Kaduna, Plateau, and Borno, celebrating Christmas feels like a distant dream. Sarah Buba, an IDP in Kaduna, lamented, ” We’ re focused on survival and praying for the chance to return home and rebuild our lives. ”
Despite the difficulties, some communities in northern states such as Gombe and Nasarawa remain hopeful of a peaceful Christmas. Local leaders are urging residents to remain vigilant while fostering unity and harmony during the season.
As the festive season nears, the ongoing insecurity underscores the need for decisive and lasting solutions to the violence disrupting the lives of millions in northern Nigeria. Without concrete action, the joy and peace that Christmas symbolizes may remain out of reach for many in the region.