Protest By Catholics in Oleh, Warri Diocese
By Stella Odika
WARRI/Nigeria: The Catholic Diocese of Warri led by its Bishop, Most Rev. John Afareha, Priests, religious and the entire laity of the church have called on the Government of the Federation to put an end to the senseless killings in all parts of the Country.
Bishop Afareha, who led a peaceful prayer procession to the Governor’s Office Annex, Warri said that the Diocese together with the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria stood in solidarity with the Catholic Diocese of Makurdi in Benue State to mourn and pray for the souls of Frs. Joseph Gor and Felix Tyolaha and seventeen (17) other victims of herdsmen attack in Mbalom and all part of the country.
The Catholic Bishop added that the growing sense of fear, uncertainty and insecurity in the country was both palpable and unacceptable, saying, “We cannot take to arms to defend ourselves but we can arm ourselves with prayer and voice out our displeasure to the Government, and we challenge them to rise up to their constitutional responsibility of safeguarding the life and property of all Nigerians everywhere and at all times.”
Catholics of Oleh Deanery of Warri Diocese
Speaking further the Cleric said: “Through this peaceful, prayerful procession/demonstration we condemn in unequivocal terms the incessant and senseless killings in all parts of our country.”
He reiterated on the sanctity of human life, adding that every life was sacred irrespective of tribe, creed or political affiliations, and should be cherished and protected by all.
The most Rev. John Afareha enjoined the Government to deploy its machinery without complicity to stop the bloodletting and killings in our land, and bring to justice the enemies of peace and save Nigeria from anarchy and disintegration.
The procession was received by Mr Nelson Emiro, an Assistant Director in the Governor’s Office, Government House Annex, Warri on behalf of the Director of the office Mr Sunday Ukujere who promised to forward the letter to the appropriate quarter.
