A Bishop’s Lament and the Cry for Justice in Nigeria
On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Most Reverend Godfrey I. Onah, the Catholic Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, delivered a powerful homily that resonated deeply with many Nigerians. With nearly eight hundred thousand followers under his care, the Bishop expressed his frustration over the persistent violence targeting Christians in the country. His words were not only a reflection of personal anguish but also a call to action for the government and society at large.
Bishop Onah did not mince words. He criticized the lack of effective measures taken by the Nigerian government to protect its citizens, particularly Christians, from attacks. He pointed out that the government’s failure to address these issues was akin to “crucifying” the faith of the people. He highlighted the destruction of Christian schools by the government, which he described as an attack on the very foundation of education and character formation. The Bishop lamented how these institutions had been turned into breeding grounds for crime and mediocrity, leaving many unable to function effectively in society.
The Bishop also raised concerns about the lack of accountability for those who commit these crimes. He questioned why there was no transparency regarding the number of churches destroyed or the number of Christians killed. He emphasized that when criminals are caught, they often escape justice, while innocent lives are lost without any recourse. This selective outrage, according to Bishop Onah, is a clear sign of systemic neglect and bias.
In his homily, Bishop Onah drew parallels between the current situation in Nigeria and the biblical story of the Israelites in the desert. He urged Nigerians to take action, to move forward, and to embrace the values of the gospel. He stressed that it was time for individuals and communities to rise above their selfishness and work together for the greater good.
A Growing Concern Across the Nation
Bishop Onah’s sentiments are not isolated. Across Nigeria, from the North to the South, East, and West, similar cries for justice and protection have become common. Leaders, especially Christian ones, frequently speak out against the violence, yet there remains a noticeable silence from Islamic leaders on the same issues. This discrepancy raises questions about the collective responsibility of all religious groups in addressing the crisis.
One example of this growing concern is the case of Sunday Adeyemo, known as Sunday Igboho, from Oyo State. After a violent encounter with security forces, he has been in limbo, with his whereabouts unknown. His story highlights the tension between the state and its citizens, particularly in regions where violence and unrest are prevalent.
Another case that echoes Bishop Onah’s message is that of Sunday Jackson, a Christian from Adamawa State. His death sentence, upheld by the Supreme Court, sparked debates about justice and fairness. While some argue that his case was influenced by his faith, others maintain that the legal system should remain impartial.
The Role of International Attention
The issue of violence against Christians in Nigeria has drawn international attention, particularly from the United States. Christian leaders have presented evidence of what they describe as genocide, leading to diplomatic tensions. However, the focus has shifted from addressing the root causes of violence to questioning the role of foreign powers in Nigeria’s affairs.
Despite these challenges, there is a growing awareness among Nigerians about the need for change. The actions of President Bola Tinubu and his diplomatic efforts are being closely watched, as many hope for a new direction in governance and security.
A Call for Unity and Action
Bishop Onah’s words serve as a reminder that the path to peace and justice requires collective effort. It is not enough to simply wish for a better future; it is essential to take concrete steps to address the underlying issues. As the Bishop emphasized, the values of the gospel must be embraced in both individual and communal life.
The situation in Nigeria is complex, but it is clear that the time for inaction has passed. The cry for justice, like Bishop Onah’s lamentations, must be heard and acted upon. Only through unity, courage, and commitment can the nation hope to overcome the darkness that threatens to engulf it.