The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a strong condemnation of both the Federal and Benue State governments for failing in their primary responsibility to protect lives and ensure public safety amid escalating violence in the region.
In a statement signed by Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Owerri, the bishops expressed 'heavy hearts and deep anguish' over what they described as 'utterly barbaric' attacks on defenseless communities in Benue State.
Breakdown of Security in the Region
The bishops characterized the ongoing violence as "cold-blooded attacks on defenseless communities where countless have been slaughtered, homes destroyed, and families left in anguish." They further described these attacks as "an affront to God, a stain on our shared humanity, and a terrifying reminder of the utter breakdown of security in our land."
The CBCN emphasized that regardless of how well a government pays salaries or builds infrastructure, failure to protect human lives renders all other achievements hollow, stressing that the sanctity of human life must remain paramount.
"Any government that fails to make the safety and protection of its citizens and their property its foremost priority abdicates its fundamental responsibility and moral legitimacy."
Call for Immediate Action
The bishops have called for immediate and decisive action from both state and federal authorities to restore peace, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure justice for victims of the violence that has plagued Benue communities.
Recent developments indicate that authorities have begun taking some steps, with reports that 11 herdsmen have been arraigned for terrorism in connection with the killings. Additionally, police reinforcements have reportedly been sent to affected areas including Apa and Gwer West, while Governor Hyacinth Alia has directed security operatives to maintain presence in the affected communities.
The situation has also drawn reaction from other quarters, with former Attorney General of the Federation, Michael Aondoakaa, calling for unity and immediate action to address the crisis.
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