I performed over 73 mass burials of Christians; I buried 501 in one village, and they say there is no genocide against Christians? – Ezekiel Dacho

I performed over 73 mass burials of Christians; I buried 501 in one village, and they say there is no genocide against Christians? – Ezekiel Dacho

The world has witnessed a troubling increase in religious persecution, particularly against Christian communities in various regions. In this piece, Pastor Ezekiel Dacho shares the harrowing experience of conducting over 73 mass burials of his fellow Christians in Plateau State. He reflected that these moments are etched in his memory—not just as acts of mourning but as stark reminders of the ongoing violence and systemic oppression his community faces. Following his interviews with Lazarus Balami, NEWSng reports on the realities of this situation that challenges the narrative that denies any genocide against Christians and calls upon society to acknowledge and advocate for the victims of this tragedy.

The term “genocide” carries with it a heavy weight, invoking images of mass slaughter, ethnic cleansing, and the systematic extermination of a group based solely on their identity or beliefs. In Plateau State, the situation reflects a devastating intersection of ethno-religious conflicts, where Christians have become specific targets of brutal attacks, leading to significant loss of life. Despite the overwhelming evidence presented through mass burials and testimonies from survivors, there remains a disconcerting denial of these atrocities as mere “isolated incidents.” It is this denial that fuels further violence, allowing the persecution to continue unchecked.

“The day I buried 501 individuals from one village remains one of the most heart-wrenching experiences of my pastoral career. Each coffin represented not only a life lost but also a family shattered, a community fractured, and faith tested. These were not mere statistics; they were brothers, sisters, fathers, mothers, and children whose hopes and dreams were snuffed out in an instant. The emotional and spiritual toll of witnessing such devastation is unimaginable, yet it pales compared to the relentless suffering endured by those left behind.” Pastor Dacho explained. 

To suggest that no genocide exists against Christians in Plateau State and elsewhere with such magnitude of violence targeted at Christians is to turn a blind eye to the reality faced by countless families. The denial of these events has far-reaching implications. It emboldens perpetrators, who feel justified in their actions when society refuses to acknowledge their brutality. It silences victims and deprives them of their right to speak out against their suffering. It diminishes the gravity of their experiences, reducing their pain to a mere political talking point rather than a profound human crisis.

Some might contend that the conflict in Plateau State is rooted in broader socio-economic issues, such as land disputes and resource allocation, rather than religious animosity. While it is true that these factors play a role, they should not overshadow the blatant targeting of Christians as an identifiable group. The destruction of villages, the targeting of churches, and the killings of defenseless individuals during worship services cannot merely be dismissed as collateral damage in broader conflicts. Such actions squarely fit the definition of persecution, exacerbated by the fact that these assaults primarily affect the Christian population.

According to Ezekiel, a key element in the ongoing struggle against persecution is the need for awareness and acknowledgment from the international community. “As Christians, it is vital for us to extend our voices beyond the confines of our congregations, pressing for recognition and justice on a global scale. We must rally support from human rights organizations, governmental bodies, and global religious leaders to shed light on the plight of those suffering under the weight of oppression. Silence in the face of such tragedies is complicity, and we must refuse to be silent any longer.

“The Church must embrace its mission to aid and comfort those affected by violence. This involves providing not just spiritual guidance but also practical support—food, shelter, and counseling for survivors of violent attacks. It requires standing firm in advocacy, working alongside organizations that seek to document abuses and push for accountability. We must forge coalitions that bridge denominational lines, uniting in a common cause to protect the vulnerable and to proclaim boldly that the lives lost have inherent value.”

NEWSng reports that beyond the practical concerns, the theological implications of this crisis must also be examined. As followers of Christ, the Christians are called to love and protect the least among them. The massacre of innocent lives demands a response rooted in compassion and justice. To remain indifferent is to betray the core tenets of the Christian faith. 

“God sees our struggles and hears the cries of His people. He promises that those who mourn will be comforted, but we also understand that such comfort often comes through the hands and feet of His church acting in the world.” He said. 

NEWSng observed that, as we consider the future, it is crucial to foster dialogue aimed at reconciliation, understanding, and healing within and between communities. Efforts must be made to engage with those who perpetuate violence and encourage conversations that seek to understand grievances and promote peace. Although this may seem daunting, it is essential if we are to move beyond cycles of hatred and revenge that have plagued our society.

As Pastor Ezekiel puts it, “We must collectively reject the narrative that denies the genocide against Christians in Plateau State and elsewhere. The evidence is clear, and the pain is palpable. Society must awaken to the realities faced by those who suffer at the hands of violence and persecution. It is our moral obligation to advocate for truth, to demand justice, and to provide support to all those affected by this tragedy. My experiences as Pastor Ezekiel Dacho serve as both a plea for recognition and a call to action. As we reflect on the enormity of our responsibilities, let us not forget: God holds us accountable for the injustices we witness. May we rise up in faith, courage, and solidarity to protect and nurture those in distress and to work tirelessly toward a future where every individual can live freely, without fear, in pursuit of their faith.”

I performed over 73 mass burials of Christians; I buried 501 in one village, and they say there is no genocide against Christians? – Ezekiel Dacho