By Sunny A. David, Onitsha
Nigeria is increasingly becoming a nation defined by mourning rather than peace, as waves of killings and abductions continue to devastate communities across the country.
The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN) has strongly condemned what it described as a renewed surge of mass violence, warning that continued silence and inaction are turning the country into a “land of grief.”
In a statement released on February 7, 2026, and jointly signed by the Secretary General of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Banjo, and the National Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Michael Nsikak Umoh, the Church expressed deep concern over the persistent killing of innocent civilians and the apparent inability of authorities to end the bloodshed.
The CSN referenced recent attacks in Woro, Kwara State, where more than 160 people were reportedly killed in a coordinated assault. It also highlighted recurring violence and abductions in Agwara and Tungan Gero in Niger State, the destruction of farming communities in parts of Katsina and Kaduna States, and ongoing unrest in Borno State.
According to the Secretariat, these incidents are not isolated tragedies but part of a disturbing pattern of violence that undermines citizens’ constitutional right to life and security.
The Church reminded government officials at all levels of their constitutional responsibility to safeguard lives and property, warning that failure to curb the violence weakens public trust and erodes the moral legitimacy of leadership. It further stressed Nigeria’s obligations under international human rights laws, insisting that the right to life must be treated as non-negotiable.
To address the crisis, the CSN called on the Federal Government to urgently strengthen security presence in affected communities and seek international support where necessary. It also urged authorities to identify and prosecute sponsors of terrorism regardless of their social or political status, end the culture of impunity, and ensure perpetrators are brought to justice.
Additionally, the Secretariat appealed for comprehensive support for victims, including emergency relief, psychosocial assistance, fair compensation, and the rebuilding of destroyed communities.
The Church called on political, religious, and traditional leaders to collaborate in confronting the violence and fostering unity. It also encouraged Nigerians to reject hatred and division, stand in solidarity with affected communities, and work collectively toward healing, justice, and lasting peace.
