Nigeria

The students were both male and female and ranged in age from 10 to 18, the Christian Association of Nigeria said in a statement.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom has called on the Trump administration “to develop a robust plan” with the Nigerian government to address an escalation of violence.

(OSV News) — It’s a stark reality that — no matter how many times it’s repeated — never loses the power to shock: The 20th century produced double the number …

“Despite the fear, despite the loss, our people still come to church,” the bishop said. “Our faith is alive — maybe more alive than ever.”

Bishop Gabriel Dunia of Auchi “expressed his deep pain and sorrow over the loss of the young seminarian” and urged intensified efforts to protect people.

“Thousands of Christians are being killed. Radical Islamists are responsible for this mass slaughter,” President Trump posted on Truth Social.

Violence against Christians has escalated in recent years from Islamic extremist groups but Muslim communities have also been hit hard by the violence.

“We pray that government officials and people of all faiths may work together to bring lasting peace, justice, and security to the continent.”

The recent kidnaping and killing aren’t isolated incidents. They are part of a broader system of Christian persecution in Nigeria, Intersociety said.

Religious freedom violations are an early warning sign of where mass atrocities could occur around the globe, a new report said.