Source: Morning Star News, January 21, 2020
The Rev. Lawan Andimi had a treasured life—a loving family, an affectionate congregation, respect from his colleagues.
The kidnapped district chairman of the Church of the Brethren in Nigeria (EYN) in Michika County, in northeast Nigeria’s Adamawa state, had stated in a video that he trusted in God should he lose his life to Islamic terrorists of Boko Haram. The rebel militants executed the father of eight children on Monday [January 20], the head of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) confirmed [Tuesday, January 21].
Ahmad Salkida, a Muslim journalist who has been a primary means for Boko Haram to release information, reported in a tweet that the group beheaded Pastor Andimi on Monday afternoon.
CAN President Samson Ayokunle today confirmed in a comment to the Nigerian newspaper the Daily Post that Pastor Andimi had been executed.
Pastor Andimi had said in a Boko Haram video released by Salkida on January 5 that he hoped to be reunited with his wife, children, and colleagues.
“If the opportunity has not been granted, maybe it is the will of God,” he said. “I want all people close and far, colleagues, to be patient. Don’t cry, don’t worry, but thank God for everything.”
Pastor Andimi, who also served as chairman of CAN’s local chapter, was kidnapped on January 2 when Boko Haram attacked two Christian communities in the area.
» Read full story. Heartbreaking. We were ready to publish a report highlighting the pastor’s January 5 statements when we saw the news that he had been killed. Please be in prayer for his family and community.
» Meanwhile, in Iran, a prominent Christian rights activist has disappeared.. This is a great time to pray for Iran (Prayercast).