Nigeria’s bishops decry ‘unabated trail of blood and terror,‘ demand end to killings

ABUJA, Nigeria — Members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) have condemned the latest wave of killings and abductions in the country, calling on the government and security agencies to take urgent action to end what they describe as an “intolerable” level of violence.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Aug. 26, the bishops expressed deep sorrow over the recent abduction of more than 60 worshippers from a mosque in Borgu, Niger state, and the killing of 47 people in Ukum, Benue state.

Seventeen others were critically wounded in the Benue attack, according to the CBCN members.

“With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) once again decries the unabated trail of blood and terror across our nation which has reached an intolerable crest,” the statement said.

The bishops reiterated the fact that Nigerians continue to be killed, traumatized, and displaced regardless of where they live or worship.

“Whether in a mosque, a church, a marketplace, or the quiet of their homes, Nigerians are still being slaughtered, traumatised, and displaced with impunity,” they said in the statement.

The CBCN members expressed condolences to the families of those killed in Benue and prayed for the recovery of those critically wounded.

They also expressed solidarity with Muslims following the abduction of worshippers in Niger state, calling for their immediate and safe release.

“We stand in firm solidarity with our Muslim brothers and sisters in Niger State, and all over Nigeria, praying for the immediate and safe release of all 60 abducted worshippers,” they said.

The bishops emphasized that violence against places of worship affects society as a whole.

“An attack on any place of worship is an attack on our collective humanity,” they said.

The bishops also acknowledged efforts being made by government authorities but urged political leaders and security chiefs not to relent until Nigerians can live in safety.

“To those in government at all levels, security chiefs, and political leaders, while we commend some efforts being made, we urge that you do not give up on this responsibility until the security and welfare of the citizens are guaranteed,” they said.

The CBCN members called for proactive, intelligence-led security operations capable of identifying and dismantling criminal networks before they launch attacks.

They further called for the swift prosecution of those responsible for violence, including their sponsors, irrespective of their status or affiliations.

“Impunity fuels repetition,” the bishops warned.

The CBCN members also addressed those who commit violence and sponsor it. “To the bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, and their sponsors, we plead that you stop the bloodshed!” they said.

The bishops underscored the sanctity of human life and rejected any justification for the killing of innocent people.

“Human life belongs to God alone, and no cause justifies this cruelty. You cannot build a future on the tears of innocent persons,” they said, warning perpetrators that their actions carry consequences. “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.”

The CBCN members urged those involved in violence to lay down their arms, abandon evil, and respect human life.

In the face of deteriorating security, the Catholic leaders urged Nigerians not to lose hope in their country, calling on citizens to remain steadfast in prayer for peace, security, and divine intervention.

“May the God of peace restore order to our nation, comfort those who mourn, and touch the hearts of those who inflict pain,” the CBCN members implored.

This story was first published by ACI Africa, the sister service of EWTN News in Africa, and has been adapted by EWTN News.

Source: https://www.ewtnnews.com/world/africa/nigeria-s-bishops-decry-unabated-trail-of-blood-and-terror-demand-end-to-killings