Islamists kill two Orthodox parishioners in Nigeria, survivors left without food or water

Turan, Nigeria, March 10, 2026

The scene in Anwase community, Benue State, where 13 people were killed and more than 20 houses burned down [Image credit: Kwande Photos Archive]     

On the morning of March 6, Islamic terrorists attacked the Christian village of Turan in the Kwande district of Benue State. Ten bodies have been recovered so far, and the death toll may rise as the surrounding area continues to be searched.

Two of those killed were members of the local community of the Russian Orthodox Church’s African Exarchate: John Akule and Daniel Ahemba. They are the first African parishioners of the Russian Orthodox Church to be killed for their faith, the Exarchate reports.

Some residents were wounded in the attack, while others were forced to flee their homes immediately.

The village of Turan was home to a Russian Orthodox Church community of local residents under the pastoral care of Archimandrite Niphon. Of the 50 Orthodox Christians in Turan, 20 were children.

Fr. Niphon reports that survivors were forced to leave everything behind, and the influx of refugees into the nearest town has made it difficult for many to find even drinking water and food. Some are also in need of medical assistance.

The Exarchate announced an emergency fundraising drive to assist the families of those killed as well as the Orthodox Christians of this community who have been left homeless and without means of subsistence.

As of the time of writing, 4,278,000 rubles (approximately $47,500) of the 5,000,000-ruble (approximately $55,600) goal has already been raised.

Readers are asked to offer prayers for the repose of John Akule and Daniel Ahemba.

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