Catholic Diocese in Nigeria Condemns Brutal Assault on Priest by Military Personnel

By Silas Isenjia

WUKARI, Nigeria – The Diocese of Wukari has strongly condemned the recent attack on All Saints Catholic Church Ikyaior by Nigerian military personnel on August 5th, which left the priest in charge and his stewards severely injured.

The incident, which occurred between 9 and 10 a.m., resulted in one of the church stewards, Cornelius Terhemen, losing an eye. According to a statement from the diocese, military personnel suspected to be from Makurdi in Benue state arrived at the residence of Father Bernard Unum and assaulted him along with his stewards.

“They arrived in approximately six military trucks and motorcycles and proceeded to assault Father Unum and others present. During the attack, Cornelius Terhemen sustained severe injuries, resulting in the loss of an eye,” the statement read.

Bishop Mark Maigida Nzukwein of Wukari Diocese expressed shock and dismay at the brutality, which occurred despite the church's ongoing collaboration with government bodies to promote development, justice, and peace. The attackers continued their assault even after Father Unum identified himself.

The diocese has called on the Chief of Army Staff to identify and hold accountable the personnel responsible for the attack. In a statement signed by Vicar Pastoral Father James Yaro and Chancellor Father Simon Akuraga, the diocese also urged the Governor of Taraba State to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted and appropriate action is taken.

“We demand the immediate return of Father Bernard’s confiscated phone and appropriate compensation for Cornelius Terhemen, whose eye was permanently damaged due to the assault,” the diocese officials stated.

The Catholic Diocese of Wukari reiterated its commitment to supporting and collaborating with the government to ensure peace and stability in their communities. “As a law-abiding institution, we believe in the institution of government and anticipate prompt and decisive action from the government on this matter,” they said.

Catholic Diocese in Nigeria Condemns Brutal Assault on Priest by Military Personnel

By Silas Isenjia

WUKARI, Nigeria – The Diocese of Wukari has strongly condemned the recent attack on All Saints Catholic Church Ikyaior by Nigerian military personnel on August 5th, which left the priest in charge and his stewards severely injured.

The incident, which occurred between 9 and 10 a.m., resulted in one of the church stewards, Cornelius Terhemen, losing an eye. According to a statement from the diocese, military personnel suspected to be from Makurdi in Benue state arrived at the residence of Father Bernard Unum and assaulted him along with his stewards.

“They arrived in approximately six military trucks and motorcycles and proceeded to assault Father Unum and others present. During the attack, Cornelius Terhemen sustained severe injuries, resulting in the loss of an eye,” the statement read.

Bishop Mark Maigida Nzukwein of Wukari Diocese expressed shock and dismay at the brutality, which occurred despite the church's ongoing collaboration with government bodies to promote development, justice, and peace. The attackers continued their assault even after Father Unum identified himself.

The diocese has called on the Chief of Army Staff to identify and hold accountable the personnel responsible for the attack. In a statement signed by Vicar Pastoral Father James Yaro and Chancellor Father Simon Akuraga, the diocese also urged the Governor of Taraba State to ensure a thorough investigation is conducted and appropriate action is taken.

“We demand the immediate return of Father Bernard’s confiscated phone and appropriate compensation for Cornelius Terhemen, whose eye was permanently damaged due to the assault,” the diocese officials stated.

The Catholic Diocese of Wukari reiterated its commitment to supporting and collaborating with the government to ensure peace and stability in their communities. “As a law-abiding institution, we believe in the institution of government and anticipate prompt and decisive action from the government on this matter,” they said.