Suspected Muslim terrorists in northern Nigeria killed an 86-year-old Christian in his home on Aug. 2 and kidnapped two others who were later released, likely after ransom payments, Morning Star News reported.
The gunmen killed Daniel Yatai at his home in the predominantly Christian Manchok village, Kaduna State, according to his son Philip Daniel Yatai, who said the assailants kidnapped his niece.
While not disclosing whether a ransom was paid, Yatai on Aug. 5 confirmed that his niece had been released. Also kidnapped from his home in Manchok on Aug. 2 and held for ransom was Amos Magbon, rector of the Federal School of Statistics in Manchok, who was also released by Aug. 5.
Area residents said the assailants attacked the village in Kaura County, southern Kaduna, with gunfire before breaking into some homes.
Three others ambushed, shot
In mid-July in nearby Zangang village, three Christians were ambushed and shot, killing two of them, Morning Star News reported.
The attack followed Islamic militants’ kidnapping of 21 Christian women on June 21 in nearby Kasan Kogi village.
On Open Doors’ 2022 World Watch List of the countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, Nigeria jumped to No. 7, its highest ranking ever, from No. 9 the previous year.
EDITOR’S NOTE — This story was originally written and published by Morning Star News.
