A chilling report has revealed that at least 117 worshippers were killed in 14 separate church attacks across Enugu State between May 2021 and June 2025.
The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) disclosed that the assaults were carried out by armed jihadists, targeting mainly Anglican and Catholic churches in Eha-Amufu, Isiuzo Local Government Area.
According to the report, twelve Anglican and two Catholic churches were hit, leaving entire communities in mourning. Recovered bodies were said to have been buried locally after the raids.
Among the most devastating incidents was the attack on Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Mgbuji, in May 2021, where 25 worshippers were killed. Another in January 2022 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ogbete, claimed 40 lives.
Other churches affected include St. Barnabas, Ngene Aguiyi; St. Michael and All Angels, Okpurigwu; and Christ Church, Onumgba, with varying numbers of casualties. The most recent attacks in June 2025 at Our Saviour’s Iyi-Asaa and St. Paul’s Ikpakpara claimed 29 lives combined.
Intersociety Chairman Emeka Umeagbalasi, alongside a team of human rights lawyers, stated that many residents fled the affected communities between 2021 and 2024. Church services reportedly resumed only under heavy security in 2025, while some parishes remain deserted.
The organisation warned that the South-East is facing a growing threat from armed Fulani jihadists allegedly occupying more than 950 forest locations across 800 communities in the region.
It also accused the South-East governors of ignoring the escalating infiltration, saying their denial of armed herders’ presence endangers both religious and rural communities.
Meanwhile, Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mamam Bitrus Giwa, announced that over 5,000 suspected criminals, including kidnappers, murderers, and cultists, had been arrested between March and September 2025.
Giwa said 113 kidnapped victims were rescued within the same period through intelligence-led operations, raids, and tactical surveillance.
He assured residents that security forces remain committed to keeping Enugu safe for citizens, investors, and visitors.
However, with churches under siege and villagers still fleeing for safety, many fear the crisis is far from over.
