The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), has expressed deep concern over what it described as “disturbing reports” of delayed security response to attacks on Christian communities.
In a statement on Tuesday, the clergies decried the “deplorable security situation” in the country.
The statement was jointly signed by Archbishop Lucius Ugorji and Bishop Donatus Aihmiosion, President and Secretary of CBCN respectively.
They called for a thorough investigation into alleged failures in responding to security issues in Christian communities.
The bishops condemned repeated attacks on Christian communities.
These attacks are more frequent in the North and the Middle Belt.
The bishops said the assaults have resulted in “heavy casualties and the tragic loss of many Christian lives”.
“The deplorable security situation in our nation and the ongoing discourse heating up the nation’s fragile social and religious climate are truly worrisome,” the statement said.
The CBCN lamented that the violence has “destroyed homes and displaced families”.
They listed several recent incidents, including the abduction of 303 school children in Niger state and 25 others in Kebbi states as well as the abduction of worshippers in Kwara state.
The bishops also referenced the killing of more than 70 people in Southern Taraba. They condemned the murder of security personnel.
They warned that “when criminals can strike schools, farms, and communities with impunity, it threatens the very foundations of family life, education, and social stability”.
The CBCN called for urgent and decisive action against terrorists, insisting that “those responsible for these heinous crimes must be identified and brought to justice.
They maintained that “without accountability, there can be no lasting peace”.
The bishops urged government to secure the release of abducted persons. They also called for the return of displaced citizens to their homes.
Beyond security concerns, the CBCN criticised ongoing violations of Christian rights. They mentioned cases of destroyed places of worship as well as repeated denial of land for church buildings.
They recalled the killing of Deborah Samuel Yakubu in Sokoto, insisted that justice must be served.
The CBNC warned that impunity will only encourage further violence.
The bishops appealed for unity and urged citizens to “remain united in the quest for peace and the rebuilding of our common life”.
The statement said lasting peace requires “justice, courage, and a firm commitment to the sanctity of human life”.
Catholic bishops decry delayed security response to attacks on christians communities
