Father Ukuma Jonathan, a young priest with less than two years of being ordained, has pledged to remain in Yelewata and help rebuild his shattered parish after militants killed nearly 200 Christians in one of Nigeria’s deadliest recent atrocities.
According to Aid to the Church in Need, the death toll in the June 13 attack has risen to over 200, including around 20 victims whose bodies were discovered in a bush and empty building. Displaced families sheltering in the town’s market square were allegedly set ablaze — many sleeping at the time — before being attacked by gunmen shouting “Allahu Akbar”.
“When we heard the shots and saw the militants, we committed our lives to God ... This morning, I thank God I am alive,” Father Jonathan shared with ACN on June 18. He described a night of terror: Congregants, including children, dropped to the floor of his presbytery as gunfire erupted outside.
Father Jonathan emphasized the urgent need for increased security near Benue’s volatile border with Nasarawa State. He called for a military base or barracks, noting that many families would return to rebuild their lives — if safety is ensured.
Only about 20 people attended Mass two days after the tragedy, a stark drop from the usual 500. This reflects how many have died or fled to neighboring towns.
Yet Father Jonathan remains in the locale: “I am very much here in Yelewata … I will continue to serve the people here for the glory of God.”
Nine days of prayer
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria launched a nine-day nationwide prayer campaign that began June 21.
Catholics and people of goodwill are asked to pray the Rosary and a “Prayer for Nigeria in Distress,” culminating in a Mass for peace, healing, divine protection, victims’ repose, and the conversion of perpetrators.
This massacre, described as among the worst in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, reflects a broader surge in violence: Similar attacks just since June 8 have claimed over 218 lives and displaced more than 6,000 people.
President Bola Tinubu has condemned the violence as “senseless bloodletting,” pledging decisive action and a forthcoming visit to Benue
Father Jonathan’s resolve offers a stirring example of faith and courage. His words call all — both within and beyond the Church — to honor those lost by standing for justice, supporting displaced families, and rebuilding community.
