The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has raised fresh concerns over the worsening security crisis across the country, warning that the persistent wave of killings, kidnappings and violent attacks has left Nigerians exhausted and increasingly fearful.
The bishops made their position known during a special thanksgiving Mass held at the historic Holy Cross Cathedral in honour of Anthony Cardinal Okogie, who marked his 90th birthday, six decades in the priesthood and 55 years as a bishop.
Speaking at the celebration, the Archbishop of Lagos and Vice President of the CBCN, Alfred Martins, said the deteriorating security situation remains the most painful challenge confronting the nation and called on President Bola Tinubu and government officials at all levels to intensify efforts toward restoring safety across the country.
Martins said, “We are aware of the challenges facing Nigeria at this time; most significantly, the issue of insecurity is the one problem that breaks the heart of everyone here.
“As we wake up every day, we hear news of atrocities by Boko Haram, bandits and all sorts of criminals all over the country.”
He lamented the continued spate of kidnappings, attacks on security personnel and the forced displacement of communities, describing the situation as increasingly difficult to comprehend.
According to him, “Every day we hear of people being kidnapped by so-called bandits and other criminals. We hear of soldiers being ambushed and killed, including generals; people being displaced from their homes and even traditional rulers fleeing their domains for fear of attack. It is becoming more difficult to understand what is going on in our country.”
The cleric argued that the most meaningful birthday gift public office holders could offer Cardinal Okogie would be the restoration of peace and security across Nigeria.
He said, “One great gift that can be given to him is for those who have responsibility for leading us at all levels of government to step up their efforts so that people can live in peace, sleep with both eyes closed and travel the streets without fear and anguish. Security agencies need to be properly empowered to do their duties and encouraged to face the risks associated with their profession. Everyone is tired. Government at all levels and the security agencies should do more.”
The bishops’ concerns come amid renewed anxiety over insecurity nationwide, with several communities facing attacks by armed groups, while schoolchildren abducted in parts of Oyo and Borno states remain in captivity more than a month after their abductions.
While acknowledging that the Federal Government has maintained engagement with church leaders and has recorded some successes in its security operations, Martins said the overall situation continues to worsen.
“As CBCN, we have continuously pointed out the path for the country. We have brought these matters to the attention of the President through private audiences and he has always explained to us what the government is doing to overcome the problems. However, despite the little successes recorded at different times, the problems persist, and they are even getting worse,” he said.
The thanksgiving Mass also became a celebration of Cardinal Okogie’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s most outspoken voices on justice, governance and human rights.
Delivering the homily, the Archbishop of Benin City, Augustine Akubueze, described the cleric as a fearless defender of truth whose voice resonated during some of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods.
Akubueze said, “During years of political instability, military dictatorship, social injustice and moral confusion, Cardinal Okogie did not remain silent. He spoke with courage when silence would have been safer. He defended the dignity of the human person when many feared to do so. He reminded society that political power without moral responsibility destroys both the ruler and the nation.”
Reflecting on Okogie’s public interventions over the years, he added: “Throughout both military and civilian dispensations, he insisted that political leadership must be rooted in truth, justice, accountability and respect for human dignity. During the military era, he courageously opposed oppression, human rights abuses, political intimidation and the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, refusing to remain silent despite pressures and threats.”
Akubueze maintained that the Cardinal’s example remains relevant in a period marked by economic difficulties, insecurity and social uncertainty.
“His prophetic witness continues to call both political and religious leaders to integrity, accountability, simplicity of life and fidelity to the Gospel,” he said.
Addressing young Nigerians, the Archbishop urged them to embrace diligence and integrity rather than seeking shortcuts to success.
“No nation prospers through slogans, miracles or empty promises alone. It requires productivity, responsibility and moral renewal,” he said.
The event attracted dozens of bishops, archbishops, clergy and dignitaries, including Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Olayemi Cardoso and Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
A message from Pope Leo XIV, delivered through the Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Michael Francis Crotty, celebrated Okogie’s lifelong dedication to the Church.
The message read: “On the blessed occasion of your 90th birthday, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV expresses to you his warmest greetings and prayerful good wishes.”
Representing the Lagos State Government, Sanwo-Olu praised the Cardinal’s enduring influence on national life and moral leadership.
“For many Nigerians, His Eminence became a moral compass in moments of uncertainty. For decades, he stood as a voice of conscience and a fearless advocate for truth, justice, good governance and the dignity of every human person,” Sanwo-Olu said. “At times when silence would have been convenient, he chose courage. When many preferred neutrality, he stood firmly on the side of principle.”
The governor further noted that Okogie’s impact extended beyond religious leadership into education, healthcare and humanitarian service.
“Your life reminds us that true leadership is not measured by titles or positions but by service and the positive impact one leaves behind,” he added.
(Ripples)
