Tragic Shooting of Catholic Priest Reveals Nigeria’s Deteriorating Security Threats
The assassination of Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo on Boxing Day highlights worsening security in Nigeria, particularly for Christians. The Diocese of Nnewi reports increasing violence from armed gangs known as “bandits” targeting both clergy and civilians. Recent economic hardships have exacerbated conditions, leading to rising fatalities during Christmas charity events. Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme describes the ongoing persecution faced by Christians in northeast Nigeria.
On Boxing Day, a troubling incident in Nigeria highlights escalating security issues as a Catholic priest was shot dead on a local expressway in southeast Nigeria. The Diocese of Nnewi reported that Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo was targeted by unidentified gunmen between 7 and 8 p.m. on December 26. Further details about the circumstances surrounding the attack remain undisclosed.
Father Okonkwo had a dual profession as a pharmacist and was responsible for managing several healthcare institutions, including nursing and midwifery schools at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital Ihiala. In an official statement, Father Raphael Ezeogu, the diocese’s chancellor, urged the community to pray for the priest’s eternal peace.
The police in Anambra state have yet to verify the incident amid a rising trend of murders and kidnappings, which are primarily driven by armed gangs in the region, referred to as “bandits.” These groups often target Christians and employ kidnappings as a method to extort money from victims’ families.
The security situation in Nigeria is deteriorating, with reports of attacks indicating that 2024 may see heightened violence, particularly against Christians. In the previous year, there were significant cases of kidnapping, with the bishops’ conference noting that 21 Catholic priests were abducted between September 2022 and August 2023 alone.
The Fulani herders’ militia, identified as one of the world’s most dangerous terror groups, also participates in kidnappings and threatening local farmers, further exacerbating the crisis. Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme highlighted the ongoing suffering inflicted upon Christians in northeast Nigeria due to terrorism, stating that they have faced persistent persecution from extremists and complicity from the state.
This tragic event coincides with several Christmas-related tragedies in Nigeria, where leaders of the Catholic Church mourned the deaths of individuals at a charitable event intended to celebrate the holiday spirit. A stampede at Holy Trinity Catholic Church claimed ten lives, illustrating the devastating impact of economic hardship affecting many Nigerians.
The assassination of Father Tobias Chukwujekwu Okonkwo emphasizes the alarming security decline in Nigeria, particularly affecting the Christian community. With armed gangs increasingly targeting clergy and civilians alike, the situation is dire, necessitating urgent prayers and supports from the community. The recent tragedies during the holiday season further reflect the urgent need for societal and governmental interventions to address these escalating violence and economic challenges.
Original Source: www.osvnews.com
