Residents of Yelwata community in Benue State have renewed calls for stronger security and urgent humanitarian assistance following the violent attack that devastated the area in June 2025, even as Germany pledged continued support to Nigeria in addressing insecurity and promoting peaceful coexistence.
The appeal came as Germany’s Federal Government Commissioner for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Thomas Rachel, visited Abuja after touring affected communities and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
Rachel described his visit to Yelwata as deeply emotional, recalling the trauma faced by survivors of the attack in which more than 200 people were reportedly killed.
He said many of the displaced residents expressed fear over their safety and uncertainty about returning to their ancestral homes.
The Yelwata attack, which occurred in the early hours of June 13, 2025, involved armed assailants who invaded the farming community in Guma Local Government Area, killing scores of residents and displacing thousands. Many homes were also burnt, forcing survivors into nearby IDP camps.
Rachel noted that insecurity remains a national challenge affecting both Christians and Muslims, stressing that extremist groups were responsible for much of the violence.
He added that during his visit, he met with victims, religious leaders, and government officials, all of whom expressed concern over worsening insecurity and limited prospects for displaced families.
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The German official also raised concerns about reported human rights issues linked to the application of blasphemy laws in some parts of northern Nigeria, warning that such practices undermine freedom of religion and belief.
He emphasised that Nigeria and Germany share democratic values and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting peace-building efforts, humanitarian response, and dialogue initiatives in Nigeria.
Rachel, however, clarified that Germany would not deploy military forces but would continue providing training and advisory support to Nigerian security institutions.
He stressed that lasting peace in Nigeria would depend on strengthened cooperation between religious groups, improved governance, and protection of vulnerable communities.
For residents of Yelwata and other affected areas, the visit offered renewed attention to their plight, but they continue to call for immediate protection, rebuilding support, and a clear path back to their homes.
