Peace Restored in Jos, Nigeria After more than 300 people were killed and over 25,000 people displaced by the violence that broke out in Jos, Nigeria on January 17, peace was restored. Most of the fighting took place on January 19 after which authorities imposed a 24-hour curfew. Numerous homes and businesses were destroyed. Nigerian military and security forces brought the situation under control and relaxed the 24-hour curfew. As many of you have likely heard or read, the unrest continued on Saturday, March 6. Attackers, purported to be Fulani (Muslim nomadic herdsmen), attacked some Berom (a local Christian tribe) villages around Jos. These villages are about 5-10 kilometers outside the city. News reports suggest that the attackers were from outside Plateau State and were 'revenging' the deaths dozens of Muslims suffered at the hands of the Christians during the fighting in January. Regardless of the cause, it has been reported that between 200-500 people were killed Saturday night / Sunday morning. On Sunday, Jos was quiet. People gathered for morning church services and caution was again urged and that people remain alert. By mid-day, reports and pictures of what had happened overnight began to emerge. On Monday, tensions ran high in Jos and its surrounding areas. Rumors and rumblings of violence swirled about leading many to close their shops and return home. But the day turned out to be remarkably quiet. An uneasy calm has come about the city and its surrounding areas. We do ask that you continue to pray that peace might settle on this area. The tensions and violence are complex and confusing. The tensions are not only 'religious' in nature, but also driven by ethnicity, control of the land and political affiliation. These tensions are further compounded by the confusion surrounding the health of Nigeria's President Yar a'dua - who has not been seen for months. We covet your continued prayers as the people of Plateau State walk a long path of grieving, healing and rebuilding trust. To read more about the conflict, read the "Unrest Continues in Nigeria" article in the CRC newsroom. Support Efforts to Bring Relief & Reconciliation |
