A Plateau-based cleric and regional leader of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Evangelist Ezekiel Dachomo, has sparked national debate after a viral video showed him declaring that no ransom should ever be paid if he were kidnapped.
In the video, which has circulated widely on social media, Dachomo said he has told his family and church members not to raise a single kobo for his release if abducted.
He declared that his death would “raise war” that would lead to the liberation of Christians in Nigeria.
“We are showing them mercy, we are showing them love but they didn’t see it. I don’t know where I will be next, but for me, I’ve already told my family and members; if they kidnap me, nobody should contribute one kobo. My grave will speak, my blood will raise war that will lead to Christians’ liberation,” Dachomo said in the video.
Outcry and reactions to cleric’s statement
The cleric, who is a well-known religious figure in Plateau State, said he has accepted the risk that comes with openly condemning the recurring killings and violence targeting Christian communities in northern Nigeria.
“That day is coming, I am just waiting for them. Even I will tell them, kill me quickly because nobody will bring kobo,” he added.
Dachomo has been vocal about the insecurity in Plateau and neighboring states, often criticizing both the government and security agencies for not doing enough to protect residents.
Cleric’s video on mass burial sparks global attention
Earlier, the evangelist released another video showing the mass burial of victims from a recent attack in Heipang community, near Jos. He said the footage was meant to serve as evidence of what he called an “ongoing Christian genocide” in the North.
According to Dachomo, documenting these incidents is crucial so that the world will not deny or forget the atrocities.
