A Plateau-based cleric, Rev Ezekiel Dachomo, has raised concern over what he described as rising threats to Christian communities in the state.
He alleged that extremist groups are extorting residents to finance planned attacks during the Christmas period.
Speaking at the Glory Dome in Abuja, the reverend claimed intelligence reports showed that the groups were demanding money from villagers, N100,000 from women and N200,000 from men to purchase weapons ahead of coordinated assaults.
He said, “They have vowed we will not spend our Christmas this year. They say we will run with rice in our hands because they are ready for Jihad.”
Dachomo called for intensified prayers, insisting that divine intervention remained the most potent defence for vulnerable communities.
He added, “Your prayer is more than AK-47. It’s more than rocket launchers. Let’s launch our prayers to heaven.”
Appealing to Christians across the country, he urged heightened intercession for those living in fear of attacks.
“Christians must be safe. There is a genocide in Nigeria. Pray for us in Jesus’ name,” he said.