Islamist Attack in Nigeria Kills Russian Orthodox Parishioners

Christian village of Turan in Nigeria where Islamist militants attacked. Photo: Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa of the Russian Orthodox Church

TURAN, NIGERIA — On March 6, Islamist militants launched a deadly attack on the Christian village of Turan, killing and wounding residents, including members of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) under the care of Archimandrite Niphont.

Eyewitness reports indicate that the assailants struck the village in the morning, forcing many residents to flee in desperation. At least ten bodies have been recovered so far, including parishioners John Akule and Daniel Ahemba, who are believed to be the first African members of the ROC to die for their faith. The death toll could rise as search efforts continue in the surrounding areas.

The surviving Orthodox faithful, roughly fifty people including twenty children, have been displaced and face severe hardships, lacking food, drinking water, and medical care. The Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa has launched an emergency fundraising campaign to support the victims’ families and provide relief to the displaced community.

Anyone interested in making a donation is encouraged to reach out via email to help@exarchate-africa.ru.

Previously, the UOJ reported that gunmen killed a priest’s wife and torched a church in an attack on a Nigerian congregation. 

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