Tragedy struck in Orozo, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, as a promising young graduate, John Johnson, was brutally butchered by suspected herdsmen during a Boys’ Brigade camping event in Zaina, near Angwar Hakimi. The horrifying incident occurred on March 29, 2025, leaving the community in mourning and sparking widespread outrage.
John Johnson, an Igala indigene, had recently endured the painful loss of his father, who succumbed to a prolonged illness last year. Despite this hardship, Johnson remained committed to his faith and community, actively participating in the Boys’ Brigade activities. However, his life was tragically cut short in an attack that has left many questioning the security situation in the nation’s capital.
The Chief of Igala in Orozo, Amadu Zachariah, confirmed the incident, lamenting the lack of swift action by security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators. “It is a sad and painful loss. This young man had his entire future ahead of him, but his life was cruelly taken,” Zachariah stated.
According to reports, the Boys’ Brigade had initially set up camp in Zaina but had to relocate to a nearby church due to an impending rainstorm. As the group settled in, two leaders returned to retrieve their belongings from the previous site. It was then that they fell into an ambush laid by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
“On their way back, the attackers, believed to be Fulani boys, struck. One leader managed to escape, but Johnson was mercilessly killed,” Zachariah narrated.
Upon receiving the distress call, local villagers rushed to the scene, only to find Johnson lifeless. Reports indicate that shortly after the killing, Fulani herdsmen residing in the vicinity fled, raising further suspicions about their involvement. Despite promises from Fulani community leaders to identify the assailants, no arrests have been made yet.
Authorities, including the police and traditional leaders, launched an investigation. However, frustration is mounting as the culprits remain at large. “The police confirmed that the Fulani herdsmen around the area packed up and fled. Their leaders have asked for time to identify the attackers, but justice delayed is justice denied,” Zachariah emphasized.
The shocking murder has plunged Johnson’s family and community into grief, igniting calls for justice. The sorrow-stricken mother and siblings of the deceased are now left to navigate an unbearable loss, with no clear assurance that the killers will face consequences.
Meanwhile, the Fortress Ministry in Abuja, where Johnson was an active member, officially announced his passing, describing him as a martyr who stood firm in his faith.
“With deep sorrow but unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, Fortress Ministry Abuja announces the homegoing of our beloved brother, Bro. Johnson Enyo-Ojo John, who transitioned to glory on March 29, 2025,” read a statement signed by Rev. Samuel Ikani.
“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. While our hearts grieve his departure, we take comfort in the words of Scripture: ‘Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints.’ – Psalm 116:15.”
The ministry urged its congregation to lift Johnson’s grieving family in prayer, seeking strength and divine comfort for his mother and siblings in this dark hour.
Efforts to obtain an official response from the FCT Police Command proved futile, as the spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, did not respond to multiple calls and messages seeking her reaction.
The brazen nature of this attack has raised fresh concerns over insecurity in the nation’s capital, fueling demands for urgent action against the perpetrators. Will justice be served for John Johnson, or will his killers walk free like many others before them? The coming days will tell.
PIONEER NEWS 