[Regnum] Members of the congregation of the Patriarchal Exarchate of Africa of the Russian Orthodox Church (ROC) have fallen victim to an extremist attack in Nigeria for the first time. The religious association's press service reported this on Saturday, March 7.
"On the morning of March 6, Islamic terrorists attacked the Christian village of Turan (Benue State) in Nigeria. They killed some residents, wounded others, and forced the rest to flee. Two of those killed—Ioann Akule and Daniil Ahemba—were members of the Russian Orthodox Church community operating in the village," the exarchate noted on its Telegram channel.
According to the association, the bodies of ten dead people were found in the village, but the death toll could rise. A total of 52 Christians lived in Turan, 20 of whom were children. Citing the community's rector, Archimandrite Nifont (Hülle), it is noted that the survivors were forced to leave everything behind, and due to the influx of refugees, there is a shortage of drinking water and food.
In connection with this, the exarchate announced a fundraising campaign on its website to help those affected by the attack.
Related:
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Benue State: 2026-01-27 Nigerian Army troops, with air support and joint forces, repel bandits’ attack in Benue
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Benue State: 2026-02-07 Ten killed, five missing as police assess attack on Abandi community in Benue
Benue State: 2026-01-27 Nigerian Army troops, with air support and joint forces, repel bandits’ attack in Benue
Benue State: 2026-01-24 Armed herder bandits attack in Benue leave three dead, one injured