Islamic Extremist Terrorists Kill, Kidnap Christians in Northeast Nigeria

Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on Thursday (Jan. 20) attacked Pemi village, killing a Christian identified as Blan Gutto, kidnapping 17 Christian girls ages 10 to 13 and burning down a Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) building, said area resident James Nkeki. They also burned the shop of Ayuba Bulus, also a Christian, he said.

“One of the girls kidnapped I know in person is Miss Roya Joel,” Nkeki said. “More than two dozen houses were burned down, and I must say that these attacks on our communities are getting out of hand. We need your prayers for God’s deliverance from these forces of evil.”

In nearby Kautikari on Jan. 14, ISWAP militants killed three Christians and kidnapped five Christian girls, area residents said. The terrorists also burned down the village’s EYN worship building.

Area resident Victoria Dunga identified the Christians killed as Joseph Sangula, Ayal Yerima Kau and Friday Abdu. She said the five kidnapped girls were Naomi Titus, Lami Yirma, Hauwa Gwarabutu and two sisters, Rahap and Saratu Born.

“Burning down our churches will not stop us from worshipping God,” Dunga said in a text message.

Area resident Blessing Bulama echoed the sentiment.