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‘How Satan controlled my life without me even knowing’
In a nation grappling with complex security challenges, deep religious sensitivities and growing calls for justice, the voice of the church continues to resonate across communities. For Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, a cleric with the Church of Christ in Nations, the story is both deeply personal and profoundly national.
In his recent interview with Ryan Miller, which was monitored by The Nation, Dachomo recalled his turbulent past marked by crime and addiction to a life of faith, leadership and advocacy, a journey which reflects a dramatic transformation. Yet, beyond his personal testimony lies a broader narrative—one that speaks to the struggles of many communities, particularly in northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt.
Dachomo’s early years were marked by hardship and instability. Losing his father at the age of six, he drifted through life without direction, eventually falling into crime and substance abuse.
“I lost my mother at the age of six and began living recklessly. I was sleeping on the streets and was an associate of a group of robbers. I lived without God, smoking and drinking heavily. I even remember removing pages of the Bible to wrap Indian hemp. Satan was controlling my life without me even knowing it.”
However, in 1985, he experienced what he described as a life-changing spiritual encounter.
“That moment changed everything. I could no longer go back to my old ways. I turned my life to Christ and began a new journey,” he said.
Despite initial skepticism from those around him, Dachomo said he found acceptance within the church and gradually grew into ministry, focusing on evangelism and youth outreach. Over the years, he rose to leadership, overseeing multiple congregations.
Beyond his personal transformation, Rev. Dachomo has become an outspoken voice on the security situation in Nigeria, particularly in regions such as Plateau State and Southern Kaduna.
According to him, the challenges facing Christian communities are longstanding and deeply rooted.
“This did not start today. There are historical tensions that go back decades. Many communities have faced repeated violence, displacement and marginalisation,” he said.
He described a pattern of attacks that have disrupted lives and livelihoods, forcing many to flee ancestral homes.
Complex web of violence
Dachomo pointed to the activities of multiple armed groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, as well as other factions operating across northern Nigeria.
“There are different groups, and sometimes they even fight among themselves. But ordinary people are the ones suffering the consequences,” he explained.
He noted that the impact is particularly severe in rural communities, where access to security is limited, and attacks often go unreported.
While official figures vary, Rev. Dachomo believes the scale of violence is significantly underreported. “Thousands have been killed, and many more are missing. What you hear publicly is only a fraction,” he said.
He also raised concerns about ongoing abductions and the lack of consistent media coverage. “There are incidents happening even now that many people do not hear about,” he added.
The cleric also expressed concern over what he described as systemic challenges within governance and national institutions.
“Sometimes, it feels like the truth is not fully told. There are issues around representation and trust that need to be addressed,” he said.
He called for greater transparency, fairness and inclusiveness in national systems, particularly within security structures.
Personal loss and pain
In an emotional account, Rev. Dachomo shared his own experiences of loss.
“My grandmother was killed. My uncle, too. My friend’s entire family was burned in their home,” he said.
He described visiting affected communities and witnessing the aftermath of attacks, scenes he said remain deeply etched in his memory. “These are experiences you carry with you for life,” he added.
Despite these painful experiences, Dachomo emphasised the importance of faith and forgiveness.
In one instance, he recounted sheltering individuals from another faith during a crisis. “They came to me for safety, and I protected them. That is what my faith teaches,” he said.
He stressed that the situation should not be reduced to a simplistic narrative of religion alone. “There are good and bad people in every group. What we need is understanding and humanity,” he noted.
Call for unity and global attention
Dachomo urged both Nigerians and the international community to pay closer attention to the situation and support efforts toward peace and rebuilding. “We need unity, justice and sincere leadership. Violence will not solve our problems,” he said.
He also called for humanitarian support for displaced persons and communities seeking to rebuild their lives. “Many people have lost everything. They need help to start again,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Dachomo remains hopeful about Nigeria’s future. “No matter how difficult things are, I believe change is possible. Nigeria can still find peace if we commit to truth and fairness,” he said.
Even in the face of personal risk, he insists on standing firm. “My faith gives me strength. I will continue to speak and stand for what is right,” he declared.
For him, the message is clear: “We have not lost our faith. What we ask is simple—do not ignore us.”