Catholic bishops in Nigeria have appealed to bandits and those behind attacks in the country to cease their fire and give peace a chance, News About Nigeria reports.
President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, made this appeal while delivering a sermon at a Thanksgiving Mass held at Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri, in honour of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and Governor Hope Uzodimma’s re-election on Sunday.
He noted that Nigeria was a far cry from the haven of peace and home of the hospitality industry it was known for in the past, which has also attracted people from far and near to the country.
He further noted that in recent years, there have been horrifying memories of bloody conflicts, mindless blood spilling, and countless numbers of kidnappings in the country, adding that it is an unfortunate turn of events.
Ugorji maintained that although there were no reports of bloody attacks or kidnappings during the last Christmas season, the new year came with questions in the hearts of Nigerians on whether there will be peace and a renewed sense of brotherhood in our communities and states in the country.
He therefore appealed to those behind the unrest and violence in the country to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance, maintaining that it is the prerequisite for a prosperous nation, as no nation can thrive in chaos.
He also stated that it was important for the country to remember those who lost their lives in various wars and armed conflicts, maintaining that they fought to preserve the lives of others, thereby sacrificing their lives for the nation.
