The Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) in Mangu, Plateau State, has been set ablaze by gunmen suspected to be nomadic herders.
The attack on Tuesday comes amid reports of rampaging armed men targeting Church buildings and individuals perceived as Christians in the area.
Details surrounding the incident are still emerging, but reports quoted an anonymous resident as describing the attackers as “suspected herdsmen who emerged from the surrounding bushes.”
Following the fresh attack, pandemonium reportedly broke out in Mangu town, as residents scrambled to safety.
Reports further quoted an anonymity source as saying: “As we speak the COCIN Church near Sabon Kasuwa is on fire and they are advancing towards other churches in town.”
The burning of the COCIN Church, a prominent Christian denomination in the region, raises concerns about potential escalation of religious violence in Plateau State. The history of the state has been marred by communal clashes and sectarian conflicts, often fueled by competition for resources and identity politics.
Authorities in Plateau State are yet to officially comment on the attack or the broader situation in Mangu. However, the incident has sparked outrage and calls for swift action to protect Christians and restore calm in the area.
* Media Report