The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) says it has received “disturbing reports” of delayed or withheld security responses on attacks in several predominantly Christian communities.
In a statement on Tuesday, the clerics condemned the security situation in the country and addressed the allegations of a Christian “genocide” — a label the federal government has repeatedly rejected.
The bishops said the label stemmed from a “prolonged” attack on members of the faith.
“It is a matter of grave concern that several predominantly Christian communities, particularly in the Northern and middle belt regions of the country, have come under repeated and brutal attacks, resulting in heavy casualties and the tragic loss of many Christian lives,” the statement reads.
“In some instances, there have been disturbing reports of delayed or withheld security responses, giving the impression of possible collusion or a lack of will to act.
“The near-total destruction and occupation of some communities, and the continued attacks on displaced persons even in camps, have deepened the people’s sense of abandonment and despair. Such prolonged unbearable conditions have given credence to allegations of ‘genocide’ in some quarters.
“Yet, mindful of the sacred dignity and inestimable worth of every human life, we are equally deeply concerned that Muslims and many other innocent citizens of diverse ethnic backgrounds have also been victims of this same cruelty that continues to desecrate our common humanity.”
The bishops urged the government to investigate the reports of delayed or withheld security responses in the affected communities to rebuild public trust.
They also asked the federal government to bring the perpetrators of the recent kidnaps across Kebbi, Kwara, Borno, and Niger to justice.
