The massacre of nine members of the James family in Kum Community, Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, has sent shockwaves across Nigeria, with the Regional Chairman of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) for Barkin Ladi LGA, Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, confirming that all victims were part of his extended family. The brutal attack, carried out by Fulani terrorists on Saturday night, has reignited urgent calls for justice, security reforms, and national attention to the ongoing crisis in the region. Rev. Dachomo led a mass burial for the victims on Monday, expressing deep grief while emphasizing the repeated targeting of his family due to his advocacy against the violence.
Rev. Dachomo stated that this is not the first time his family has been attacked by Islamist extremists. He recounted how his grandmother was killed and her heart removed, and how one of his uncles was butchered with his tongue cut out. “We are here once again to conduct another mass burial for our people, and once again, all these victims are members of my family, my own blood,” he said during the burial service. He added that Kum Community holds deep personal significance for him, describing it as his “second home” where he once stayed during his youth and later returned to pray in solitude on a mountain nearby.
The victims, all from the James family, were identified as Celina James (38), Yohanna James (21), Janet Yohanna (18), Jenifer Yohanna (3 months), Sele James (18), Melody James (16), Rito James (10), Endurance James (8), and Peace James (3). The only known survivor, Pam Yohanna, sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment. The information was compiled by Rev. Nehemiah Mutfwang based on an on-the-spot assessment by volunteer Mr. Barnabas Tok.
Despite the trauma, Rev. Dachomo declared his forgiveness toward the perpetrators, saying, “Yes, Fulani killers, I have forgiven you for this murder of my family members.” He criticized those who deny the existence of genocide in Plateau State, calling their claims “lies” in the face of such repeated violence against his family. The attack has drawn renewed attention to the insecurity in the region, with communities demanding stronger security measures, accountability for those responsible, and sustained support for displaced families and survivors.
This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive security reforms and national solidarity in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Plateau State. As the country mourns the loss of innocent lives, the call for justice and protection for vulnerable communities grows louder.
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