Catholic Bishops Slam Federal, Benue Governments Over Ongoing Killings

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a scathing rebuke to both the Federal and Benue State governments, accusing them of failing in their core responsibility to safeguard the lives and property of citizens amidst ongoing attacks in Benue State and other parts of the country.

In a strongly worded statement signed by the CBCN President and Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, the bishops expressed deep sorrow and outrage over what they described as “barbaric attacks” on innocent communities in Benue.

They condemned the recurring bloodshed, stating that the cold-blooded murders, destruction of homes, and displacement of families are not only an affront to God but a glaring symbol of Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.

“No matter how many roads are constructed or salaries paid, a government that cannot guarantee the safety of its people has failed fundamentally,” the statement read. The bishops stressed that the sanctity of human life must be regarded as supreme and non-negotiable.

They called for swift, bold action from both the federal and state governments to restore peace, bring perpetrators to justice, and ensure lasting security for affected communities.

The CBCN concluded by warning that any government that fails to make the protection of lives and property its highest priority risks losing both its moral authority and legitimacy.