Turan, Nigeria, April 3, 2026
Photo: exarchate-africa.ru
A funeral was served on March 17 for twelve Christians killed in an Islamist terrorist attack on the village of Turan in Kwande District, Benue State, Nigeria, on March 6, including two parishioners of the Russian Orthodox Church’s Exarchate of Africa.
The burial was delayed due to ongoing security concerns in the area, the Exarchate reports.
Among the victims of the Islamist attack were Orthodox parishioners John Akule and Daniel Ahemba. Following the attack, funds were collected through the Exarchate website to provide humanitarian aid to survivors and the bereaved.
In the immediate aftermath, more than 300 displaced persons were sleeping outdoors on bare ground, with only torn and dirty clothing, sheltering in bushes to avoid further attacks. Mattresses were purchased and temporary housing was arranged. Many survivors sustained serious injuries, including gunshot wounds, while children suffered broken bones. Residents were also afflicted with typhoid fever, malaria, dysentery, and parasitic infections. Medical care has been provided, along with medicines and food supplies, and the most critically ill have been referred to specialized clinics.
85 schoolchildren are being transferred to schools in other areas, as educational institutions in Turan remain closed due to the security situation.
Archimandrite Niphon met with the traditional ruler of the local government area, Timothy Ahile, and representatives of the Turan traditional council, who expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Russian Church.
Relief efforts are ongoing, as many people who are unable to work have been left without shelter or means of subsistence after their homes and all their possessions were destroyed by fire.
Exarch Metropolitan Constantine, Archimandrite Niphon, and local residents have expressed gratitude to all donors for their prayers and financial support. “This help saved the lives of the wounded and gave hope to the despairing,” Fr. Niphon said.
Follow OrthoChristian on Facebook, Twitter, Vkontakte, Telegram, WhatsApp, MeWe and Gab!
