Islamist Protest in Yumbe Leaves Five Christians Dead
Five Christians were killed and dozens more injured on November 4 in Yumbe, northern Uganda, after an Islamist leader incited violence against Christian merchants over pork sales near a mosque. The unrest underscores rising religious tensions in the region and the challenges of ensuring safety for minority communities.
How the Violence Started
The unrest began after a video circulated on social media showing Sheikh Kasim Abdalla of Munir Mosque calling for Muslims to take action against what he described as unholy practices in Yumbe. In the video, Abdalla urged Muslims from across the West Nile sub-region, and even from Sudan and Somalia, to participate in what he termed “Operation Albadiri,” likening it to an ancient Islamic battle.
According to sources, the Sheikh’s message called for the cleansing of Yumbe of practices considered offensive to Islam, specifically targeting Christian merchants selling pork near the central mosque. On the evening of November 3, he reportedly stated that every Muslim youth must rise to defend the honor of their faith and prevent Christian businesses that promote sin from operating in Yumbe.
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Escalation into Violence
Although the demonstration began peacefully on November 4, it quickly escalated into violent attacks on Christian-owned shops and homes. Security forces intervened, deploying tear gas and firing live rounds into the air, but the damage had already been done.
At least five Christians were killed during the attacks. Jackson Lameriga, 34, of New Revival Church, suffered fatal injuries from sword stabs. Collins Chadiru of the Church of Uganda in Nebbi District died after being struck with a stone, resulting in severe head injuries. Others killed included Recheal Anyandiru of Koboko Baptist Church, Philemon Okou of Deliverance Church, and evangelist Ben Gracious Padi, who was stoned while preaching on the streets. Several additional deaths have been reported but remain unconfirmed.
Damage to Property and Community Impact
The violence also caused widespread destruction to Christian properties. Reports indicate that church buildings including St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Lodonga Pentecostal Church, and Yumbe Revival Centre were vandalized. Multiple Christian-owned businesses were looted or burned, and up to 50 homes may have been damaged.
Local Christians expressed deep fear for their safety. Bernard, a resident, told Morning Star News that the overwhelming Muslim majority in the district has heightened concerns about potential further attacks.
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Population Dynamics and Religious Tensions
According to the 2024 census, Yumbe District has a population of 934,340, with Muslims comprising 76 percent and Christians about 24 percent. While Uganda’s constitution guarantees religious freedom, including the right to propagate faith and convert, tensions persist, particularly in areas where one religious group is heavily concentrated. Muslims make up around 12 percent of Uganda’s total population, with higher concentrations in eastern regions.
Government Response
Police arrested more than 30 individuals, including Sheikh Abdalla, who faces charges of inciting religious violence and promoting hatred. Security forces continue to maintain a strong presence in Yumbe Town to prevent further outbreaks.
Pastor Akidribo Robert of the Anglican Church of Uganda called on the government to provide protection for Christians and ensure justice for victims. He stressed that believers would not abandon their homes or churches despite the attacks and affirmed that the community continues to pray for peace.
The Broader Context
The Yumbe incident is part of a growing pattern of persecution and religiously motivated violence against Christians in Uganda. Organizations such as Morning Star News have documented multiple attacks in recent years, highlighting the ongoing challenges of protecting religious minorities in regions with a dominant religious group.
Community members emphasized that all citizens have a right to conduct lawful business, including selling food products that reflect their cultural or religious practices. The attacks raise serious questions about tolerance, coexistence, and the responsibility of local leaders to prevent incitement to violence.
The Yumbe tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the need for religious freedom, community protection, and legal accountability to prevent similar violence in the future.
Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi
Image Credit: Newyorktimes.com
