The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued a strongly worded statement expressing deep anguish over the country’s escalating insecurity and what they describe as the near-total collapse of governance and the rule of law. The bishops lament that Nigeria is “under siege” by terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers who operate with near-total impunity.
The statement cites recent examples of insecurity, including the abduction of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of senior military officers. The bishops question the consistent failure or deliberate delay of security forces to respond promptly to distress calls, raising serious questions of complicity or collusion at various levels.
The CBCN has called on the government to immediately rescue all abducted persons, investigate and prosecute perpetrators and their sponsors, and fulfill its constitutional duty to protect lives and property as stipulated in Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution. They also condemn the discriminatory application of Sharia law in northern states, which denies Christians equal rights to land ownership, freedom of worship, and other fundamental freedoms.
The bishops criticize the Sharia courts in northern states for perpetuating discriminatory practices against Christians, highlighting the need for equal rights and justice. While stopping short of labeling the violence as “genocide,” the bishops insist that the systematic targeting of Christians and the destruction of their communities cannot be dismissed as mere criminality.
The CBCN has urged Nigerians to reject despair, defend their communities when necessary, and demand good governance. The bishops invoke national unity under the motto “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress” and entrust the country to the intercession of Our Lady, Queen of Nigeria. The statement is a passionate cry of alarm from Nigeria’s Catholic bishops, declaring that the nation is sliding into anarchy and calling on the government to act decisively or risk total state failure.
The bishops’ statement highlights the urgent need for the government to address the security crisis and restore peace and harmony in the country. The CBCN’s call to action serves as a reminder of the critical role that citizens and leaders must play in ensuring the stability and prosperity of Nigeria.