Some of Pastor Ishaku's friends have been killed by Boko Haram, and he knows he could be next. But he still ministers to Christians in dangerous areas.
In northeastern Nigeria, where Pastor Ishaku Manawa serves, death is never far away.
“There are many people I know that Boko Haram has killed or kidnapped,” he said. “I cannot count the number of people I know that Boko Haram has killed.”
In 2014, the Islamic extremist group took control of parts of Nigeria, including the two largest cities in Adamawa state, where Ishaku works. Boko Haram militants have killed thousands of people and displaced millions of others in the region. The pastor said that in just one congregation, 37 members have been killed in Islamist attacks.
Today, the notorious extremist group operates mostly in remote, undeveloped areas. But its members continue to launch murderous attacks, and the region remains especially perilous for pastors like Ishaku.
“I cannot say that there is one thing I am most afraid of,” he said. “I know that even if they kill me, I will inherit the kingdom.” Although Ishaku has moved his family to an area where attacks are less frequent, he continues to minister to people fleeing Boko Haram attacks and often travels into dangerous areas.
“Pray that God will use persecution as a reason for us to do his work much more than before. Pray that God will protect us.”
