The crisis in Nigeria is reaching a breaking point in the Diocese of Wukari, Taraba State, where armed groups—composed mostly of the Fulani ethnic group—are driving a severe security crisis. Bishop Mark Nzukwein told Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) that violence has escalated worrying levels, with more than seven presbyteries and priests’ residences attacked and vandalized in recent weeks. These attacks are linked to peaceful protests held on February 12, 2026, following the killing of 80 faithful and attacks on more than 200 communities, including places of prayer.
A massive exodus caused by the crisis in Nigeria
The relentless violence has triggered a massive flight of the population. Currently, more than 90,000 faithful have been displaced, a situation the bishop describes as an exodus. Many displaced persons refuse to stay in refugee camps, fearing they will be abandoned or become easy targets for further attacks.
“My people are experiencing an exodus. I see them constantly on the move with their belongings from one place to another. (…) They do not want to go to the camps because they are forgotten there, like parked and abandoned”.
The humanitarian crisis is worsening due to food shortages and the disruption of education. Bishop Nzukwein warned that thousands of uneducated young people are at risk of being recruited into criminal activities, while the federal government fails to ensure accountability or arrests.
Faith incarnated in a suffering people
Adding to the suffering, the diocese’s cathedral was destroyed by a fire caused by an electrical power surge on March 4, 2026. Although the building was reduced to ashes, the bishop finds strength in the solidarity of his people and local Protestant and Muslim friends. For Nzukwein, the community’s suffering is a modern incarnation of the Passion of Christ.
“Holy Week for us is not a historical event, it is life itself; it is incarnated in my people. We are being tested, and it is a privilege. (…) With God’s help we continue carrying our cross. We are part of the martyrdom of the 21st century”.
Bishop Nzukwein shared a symbolic image of this struggle: in one vandalized presbytery, attackers even tried to burn a cross that a priest had placed there as a symbol of their suffering. ACN remains committed to supporting the Diocese of Wukari with pastoral and emergency assistance throughout this grave crisis.
