The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, has expressed concern over Killings in Benue state and the recent floods in Mokwa and surrounding areas in Niger state, both in North Central Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji.
The body describes the attacks in Benue state as barbaric and an affront to humanity and calls for urgent government action.
CBCN also expressed anguish over the spate of violence and criticized the continued bloodshed under the watch of civil authorities.
“There is no justification for the continuous bloodletting that has become the daily reality of many in Benue State and across Nigeria,” the statement reads. “The relentless attacks on innocent and defenceless communities under the watch of civil authorities constitute a grave moral and constitutional failure. This carnage must end!”
The bishops lamented the total breakdown of security in the region, noting that countless people have been slaughtered, homes destroyed, and entire families thrown into anguish.
“No matter how well a government pays salaries or builds roads, its failure to protect human lives renders its achievements hollow,” the statement emphasised. “The sanctity of human life is supreme. It is sacred. It is inviolable.”
While acknowledging the efforts of the Benue state government in infrastructural development, road construction, improved transport systems, and timely salary payments, the bishops stressed that these strides cannot compensate for the loss of human lives.
They called on both the state and federal governments to take decisive, sustained actions to end the killings and restore hope and security to the people. The CBCN urged the authorities to identify and prosecute the perpetrators of the attacks and to bring professionalism and compassion to security operations.
“Every Nigerian life matters. Every single death in such circumstances is a national tragedy and a scandal against our common humanity,” the bishops declared.
On the recent floods in Mokwa and surrounding areas in Niger State, which have led to loss of lives, displacement, and destruction of infrastructure, CBCN called for urgent, coordinated relief efforts and long-term preventive measures to reduce the risk of future disasters.
They extended their heartfelt sympathy to all victims of violence and natural disasters, assuring them of the Church’s spiritual closeness.
The statement concludes that heart of the CBCN break with the victims of circumstances and prayed that Christ’s mercy brings rest to the souls of the departed and comfort to all who suffer.
Lateefah Ibrahim