Young Graduate Butchered by Suspected Herdsmen in Abuja

ohn Johnson, left.

John Johnson, a young Igala graduate, was brutally killed and butchered by suspected herdsmen in Zaina, near Angwar Hakimi, Orozo, in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The tragic incident occurred on March 29, 2025, while Johnson was attending a Boys' Brigade camp.

Johnson had already endured personal tragedy, having lost his father last year after a prolonged illness. His death has left his family and community devastated, as they now seek justice for his killing.

The Chief of Igala in Orozo, Amadu Zachariah, confirmed the attack and expressed regret that security agencies had yet to apprehend the culprits. According to Zachariah, the Boys’ Brigade had organized a camp for its members in Zaina, but due to an impending rainstorm, the group moved to a nearby church. Later, two leaders returned to retrieve their belongings when they were ambushed by suspected herdsmen. One of the leaders managed to escape, while Johnson was killed.

"When the other boy who escaped to the village informed the people, they went back to rescue John Johnson, but before they arrived, the assailants had killed him," Zachariah stated.

Following the attack, the police were notified and began an investigation, which revealed that Fulani herdsmen living in the area had fled. Leaders of the Fulani community assured authorities they would help locate the killers, but no arrests have been made.

Meanwhile, the Fortress Ministry in Abuja has officially announced Johnson's death, describing him as a martyr. In a statement signed by Rev. Samuel Ikani, the church expressed sorrow over his loss while honoring his commitment to his faith.

"Bro. Johnson was martyred while standing firm in his commitment to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. He lived a life of devotion, service, and unwavering love for God, inspiring us with his courage and dedication," the statement read.

The church called for prayers for Johnson’s grieving mother and siblings, urging them to find strength and peace in this difficult time.

Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the FCT Police Command, SP Josephine Adeh, for a response were unsuccessful, as she did not respond to calls or messages regarding the incident.