In the Wake of Faith-based Clashes, Lutheran Hour Ministries—Nigeria Broadcasts Promote Tolerance
Over the past decade, the delicate balance of Christians and Muslims in Nigeria's population has often been the source of violent clashes between the members of each religion. This is particularly true in Jos, a city in the middle of the country, where the Christian south and the Muslim north intersect.
One such clash began on Sunday, Jan. 17, when members of a local Catholic congregation asked a group of Muslim teenagers not to play football near the church during mass. The argument escalated, and the teens set fire to the church while people worshipped inside.
At least 27 worshipers were killed in the fire; many of those inside who attempted to escape were stopped at the doors by attackers armed with machetes. Soon after, other parts of the city broke out into chaos. Nigerian police estimate that more than 300 people were killed, although the total number of casualties is not known.
Christian Ejelonu, Director of Lutheran Hour Ministries—Nigeria, says, "Every Nigerian is affected by the crisis in Jos, directly or indirectly. While the situation does not affect LHM—Nigeria's ministry physically, we worry about our brethren in Jos. They are in our hopes and prayers." LHM—Nigeria has since tailored radio programs to focus on issues of religious tolerance, love, faith, and trust.
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