A United States–based humanitarian organisation has raised the alarm over alleged plans by bandits and terrorist groups to carry out coordinated attacks on communities in Plateau, Benue and Kaduna states during the Christmas period.
The group, Equipping The Persecuted, disclosed the intelligence on Wednesday during a round-table discussion in Washington, D.C., convened by the International Committee on Nigeria and the African Jewish Alliance.
Speaking at the event, the organisation’s founder, Judd Saul, claimed that armed groups are mobilising along several border areas, including the Plateau–Nasarawa, Nasarawa–Benue and Nasarawa–Kaduna corridors, with the intention of launching attacks on Christmas Day.
According to Saul, communities allegedly being targeted include Riyom and Bokkos in Plateau State, Kafanchan in Kaduna State, and Agatu in Benue State. He described the information as “very reliable,” warning that the groups are currently gathering fighters, stockpiling weapons and preparing for what he termed a “Christmas massacre.”
Saul urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former U.S. President Donald Trump to urgently intervene to prevent the alleged attacks, calling on both governments to take immediate action to protect vulnerable communities.
Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly acknowledged the existence of intelligence relating to potential threats during the festive period, though security agencies have not publicly disclosed operational details.
Riyom Local Government Area in Plateau State has a long history of violent attacks and is predominantly inhabited by the Berom ethnic group. The area is one of the most affected by communal violence in the country.
In July 2012, more than 300 people were killed in attacks on communities in Riyom and Barkin Ladi local government areas, allegedly by suspected herdsmen. On July 8, 2012, gunmen attacked mourners during a mass burial of 63 victims in Matse village, Riyom, killing over 100 people. Among those killed was Senator Gyang Dalyop Dantong, who represented Plateau North in the National Assembly at the time.
The latest warning has heightened concerns over security ahead of the Christmas celebrations, particularly in communities that have previously experienced deadly attacks. Security agencies are expected to intensify surveillance and protective measures as the festive season approaches.