Fulani Muslims Blamed for Attacks on Christian Communities

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

By Joseph C. DeCaro, Worthy News Correspondent

JOS, Nigeria (Worthy News)-- Fulani Muslims were blamed for a series of attacks on the Christian communities in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.

The villagers of those communities are all ethnic Irigwe Christians.

According to Stefanos Foundation, gunmen raided Ranwianku the night of Oct. 25, attacking villagers with rifle fire and machetes in spite of the presence of an army barracks about a mile away; homes were burned and cattle killed.

Eyewitnesses said the gunmen spoke Fulani; all ethnic Fulani people left Ranwianku years ago as tensions flared between Muslims and Christians in Plateau.

A funeral for six victims of the attack was attended by several clergy, a senior military commander and community leaders who petitoned the participants not to seek revenge for the raid.

Stefanos Foundation will provide emergency relief and trauma counseling for survivors of the raid, as well as financial support.