On Sunday, April 26, violence once again struck the Christian community in Nigeria. Reverend Ayuba Choji, pastor of the ECWA (Evangelical Church Winning All), his wife Chundung Ayuba, and their two young children, Cyril and Endurance, were shot dead inside their home in Gako village, Rim district, Riyom local government area, Plateau state.
The attack, carried out by unidentified armed men, occurred around dusk. According to local reports, the criminals acted in a coordinated manner: one group fired at houses while another destroyed crops and blocked escape routes, preventing victims from fleeing.
The news was confirmed by Rwang Tenwong, publicity secretary of the Berom Moulder Youth Association, who expressed deep sorrow. "This is not just an attack on a family, but on the entire community. Our livelihoods are being destroyed," a local resident lamented to BusinessDay newspaper.
Context of Religious Persecution in Nigeria
Nigeria has been a stage for constant violence against Christians, especially in the northern and central regions. Extremist groups like Boko Haram and armed Fulani herders target rural communities, killing, kidnapping, and destroying property. According to Open Doors, Nigeria ranks 6th on the World Watch List, with thousands of believers killed each year.
Plateau state, where the attack occurred, is one of the most affected areas. Conflicts between Christian farmers and Muslim Fulani herders often result in bloodshed. The death of Pastor Choji and his family is another tragic chapter in this story of suffering.
What Does the Bible Say About Persecution?
Faced with such painful news, many Christians ask: why does God allow such violence against His people? The Bible does not hide that persecution is part of the reality of Christ's followers. In John 15:20 (NIV), Jesus warns: "Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also."
Yet Scripture also brings comfort and hope. In Matthew 5:10-12 (NIV), Jesus declares: "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven."
The apostle Paul also wrote: "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him, but also to suffer for him" (Philippians 1:29, NIV). This perspective does not minimize the pain, but points to the ultimate victory in Christ.
How Can the Global Church Respond?
In the face of such tragedies, the worldwide Christian community is called to action. Here are some practical ways to help:
- Pray: Intercede for the grieving families, for the church in Nigeria, and for the persecutors, that they may be converted (Matthew 5:44).
- Support organizations: Donate to groups like Open Doors, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, or Aid to the Church in Need, which support persecuted Christians.
- Raise awareness: Share news like this on social media, responsibly and prayerfully, so more people become mobilized.
- Advocate: Contact political representatives to pressure the Nigerian government to protect religious minorities.
Final Reflection: Hope Amidst Pain
The death of Pastor Ayuba Choji and his family is a stark reminder of the price many Christians pay for their faith. Yet the certainty of the resurrection and the coming Kingdom gives us strength to continue. As Romans 8:18 (NIV) says: "I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us." May this hope sustain us and impel us to act with love and solidarity toward our persecuted brothers and sisters.
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