Most Reverend Lucius Ugorji, the president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), stated that Nigeria is seemingly “under siege as the nation continues to struggle with severe targeting insecurity.
During his Easter message in Owerri, the Imo State capital, Ugorji spoke on the rising wave of kidnappings for ransom and the brutal killings of innocent citizens across the nation, describing the situation as dire and deeply troubling. The cleric also stated that no part of the country feels safe anymore.
He also said, “The government lacked political will to decisively tackle the rising tide of criminality,” warning that the public is increasingly turning to self-help to protect their lives and livelihoods.
His comments follow a worrying rise in attacks in parts of the country, particularly in Benue and Plateau States, where armed bandits and criminal gangs have continued to wreak havoc.
In Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia recently confirmed the killing of 55 people in the Logo and Ukum Local Government Areas.
Similarly, in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang urged residents of Zilkke village in Bassa Local Government Area to remain vigilant and defend themselves following a series of deadly attacks.
This comes after a brutal assault on Zilkke village, where over 50 people were killed, dozens injured, including women and children, and more than 40 houses were set ablaze by gunmen.
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