Riley Moore, a member of the United States House of Representatives from West Virginia’s 2nd District, has raised concerns about the scale of displacement affecting Christian communities in Benue State, saying the number of affected people in internally displaced persons camps has exceeded 600,000.
In a post on X on Wednesday, Moore shared his observations after completing a visit to Nigeria, where he met several families in Benue who had been forced from their homes by violent attacks.
He said many survivors recounted deeply distressing experiences, including the loss of family members and severe personal trauma, before finding refuge in IDP camps.
During his visit, Moore said he encountered men, women and children who described witnessing attacks on their communities and suffering life-altering harm.
He noted that many of the displaced persons now struggle with the emotional and physical impact of the violence they escaped.
He wrote, “While in Benue, I met with dozens of Christians who were driven from their homes and subjected to horrific violence and now live in IDP camps.
“They told harrowing stories that will remain with me for the rest of my life.
“One woman was forced to watch as they killed her husband and five children. She, and her unborn child, barely escaped.
“Another woman’s family was murdered in front of her and her baby was ripped from her womb.
“One man’s family was hacked to death in front of his eyes and his arm was permanently mangled.
“There are more than 600,000 Christians in IDP camps in Benue State alone.
“These Christians should be able to live in their ancestral homeland without fear of genocidal Fulani.
In an earlier post on X on Sunday, the US lawmaker said that he had concluded a “very productive” visit to Nigeria
“I came to Nigeria in the name of the Lord and on behalf of the American people,” Moore wrote.
Announcing the end of his trip, he added, “Just ending a very productive visit to Nigeria and rounds of meetings. More details to come. Happy Sunday. God is Great!”
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