Pope Leo XIV Leads Global Tribute to 271 Victims of Yelewata Massacre

Catholic leaders, International Missionaries and Residents of Yelewata Community in Benue State on Friday gathered to mark the first anniversary of one of the deadliest attacks recorded in the area, commemorating 271 people killed during the June 13, 2025 massacre.

The memorial event featured the unveiling and dedication of a 14-foot memorial wall bearing the names of all identified victims of the attack.

The ceremony was accompanied by renewed calls for urgent and sustained measures to protect vulnerable communities facing recurring violence across Benue State.

A message from Pope Leo XIV, delivered through the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Rev. Wilfred Anagbe, assured the people of Yelewata of continued prayers and solidarity from the global Catholic community.

The Pope also urged leaders at all levels to pursue practical and lasting solutions to the persistent attacks affecting communities in Benue and other parts of Nigeria.

Bishop Anagbe reiterated concerns about insecurity in the state and stressed the need for stronger protection of innocent citizens.

The memorial wall was constructed and commissioned by a delegation of American missionaries led by Judd Saul as part of broader international efforts to draw attention to attacks on vulnerable communities and support victims of violence.

In addition to the monument, the missionaries donated relief materials comprising food and non-food items to affected families and survivors.

Organisers said the memorial serves both as a tribute to those who lost their lives and as a reminder of the urgent need for peace, justice and security.

According to records presented at the ceremony, the names engraved on the memorial wall include 271 victims made up of 66 children, 83 women and 122 men.

Families of the victims, religious leaders, community members and humanitarian workers attended the event, many of whom described the memorial as a significant symbol of remembrance and resilience.

Speakers at the gathering called on government authorities, security agencies and stakeholders to intensify efforts to prevent further attacks and ensure that affected communities are able to live without fear.

The anniversary observance concluded with prayers for the victims and renewed appeals for lasting peace in Benue State and across Nigeria’s troubled communities.