A humanitarian organisation, Equipping The Persecuted, has raised the alarm over alleged plots for violent attacks in parts of northern and central Nigeria on Christmas Day, sparking concern among security observers and communities.
At a roundtable meeting in Washington, D.C., convened by the International Committee on Nigeria and the African Jewish Alliance, founder Judd Saul said there is intelligence suggesting that armed militants and terrorist groups are regrouping and preparing to strike communities in areas including Plateau, Nasarawa, Kaduna and Benue States on December 25.
Saul told delegates that extremists are allegedly gathering forces along key border zones — including the Plateau–Nasarawa and Nasarawa–Kaduna borders — with the intent of carrying out coordinated attacks on local towns such as Riyom, Bokkos, Kafanchan and Agatu during Christmas festivities.
The alert was delivered during a session attended by U.S. lawmakers, including Congressmen Riley Moore and Chris Smith, Senator James Lankford, and members of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, alongside members of the Nigerian delegation.
While the group insists the information is credible, the Presidency has dismissed the warning, saying it could create unnecessary fear and questioning the motives behind the alarm. Government officials urged caution in how such reports are interpreted to avoid heightening insecurity among the public.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) said it is aware of the reported threat and has intensified intelligence gathering and surveillance ahead of the holiday season. The agency stated it is working to prevent any planned attacks and protect vulnerable communities.
As Christmas approaches, security and humanitarian groups are urging vigilance, with authorities promising continued efforts to avert possible violence.
