Tragic Unraveling: Bishop Ibeabuchi Sounds Alarm Over Soaring Insecurity in Nigeria
Despite Nigeria's Territory, No Area Is Guaranteed Safety - Bishop Ibeabuchi
In a sobering address at the 2nd Session of the Church's 11th Synod at St. Stephen's Cathedral, Umuahia, Bishop Geoffrey Ibeabuchi has lamented the escalating security crisis ravaging the nation.
Our digital corridors have reported an increasing wave of herdsmen attacks in Bassa and Bokkos of Plateau State, Ukum, and Agatu of Benue State, and Uzo-Uwani in Enugu State. These assaults have left a trail of agony, forced villagers out of their homes, and significantly augmented the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
Shepherding his flock through the turmoil, Bishop Ibeabuchi expressed deep concern, highlighting the audacious attacks on military barracks, the influx of unauthorized firearms, and the extortion rampant at security checkpoints that have further plunged millions of Nigerians into the jaws of danger.
"No corner of Nigeria remains untouched, not even sanctuaries like military barracks. Urgency and decisive actions from our security forces are imperative to stem the tide of new terrorist groups emerging in Nigeria," he somberly stated.
The Bishop's plea echoes the grief-stricken hearts of the citizens as they grapple with the realities of this working warzone, a far cry from the Nigeria of their dreams. He implores President Bola Tinubu to release the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who he believes could shed light on the masked criminals wreaking havoc in the South East under his name.
The Bishop also underscored the need for President Tinubu to tackle the relentless hardship and hunger, which are swinging more citizens into the pit of poverty. His call for empathy resonates with the despair felt by the citizens as they wrestle with hollow stomachs and bleak prospects.
The Anglican Bishop offered a word of praise for Governor Alex Otti of Abia State for his commendable achievements in office. In a moment of camaraderie, he advised the Governor to shun the tongues of flattery and aim for genuine leadership.
Insights to Consider
1. Recent Scene in Bassa and Bokkos
- Recent Incident: Armed Fulani herdsmen brutalized Zikke village in Kwall District, Bassa County, on April 14, 2025, leaving over 40 Christians dead[5].
- Current Status: The persistent security challenges in Bassa County persist, with citizens expressing disillusionment with the existing security measures[5].
2. Ukum and Agatu: Historical Tensions
- Ukum Local Government Area: Periodic tensions related to land use and cattle grazing have marked Ukum's landscape[5].
- Agatu Local Government Area: This region has faced historical conflicts associated with cattle grazing and territorial disputes.
3. Insecurity: A Widespread Dilemma
- General Response: The Nigerian government faces allegations of negligence in addressing the escalating attacks[5].
- Security Measures in Plateau State: Governor Caleb Mutfwang has enforced a ban on night grazing and motorcycle usage as part of efforts to amplify security[2][3].
4. Community's Frustration and Sense of Abandonment
Citizens throughout affected areas are expressing exasperation and a feeling of being abandoned by security forces as they grapple with the challenges[2][4].
- The attacks in Nigeria have extended to Ukum and Agatu in Benue State, mirroring historical tensions related to land use and cattle grazing.
- The wave of herdsmen attacks has also reached Uzo-Uwani in Enugu State, causing displacement and increasing the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
- Despite the government's efforts, the escalating attacks are occurring in various parts of Nigeria, even affecting so-called sanctuaries like military barracks.
- Bishop Ibeabuchi has expressed concern over the audacious attacks on military barracks, the influx of unauthorized firearms, and extortion rampant at security checkpoints.
- In a plea to President Tinubu, Bishop Ibeabuchi has asked for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, who might shed light on the masked criminals behind the attacks in the South East.
- The Bishop's address at the 2nd Session of the Church's 11th Synod in Umuahia also emphasized the need to address the relentless hardship and hunger that plague millions of Nigerians.
- Addressing Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Bishop Ibeabuchi offered praise for his commendable achievements in office and encouraged genuine leadership, shunning flattery.
- Recent incidents in Bassa County, such as the brutal attack on Zikke village, indicate that the persistent security challenges in the region remain unaddressed, leaving citizens feeling disillusioned with the existing security measures.
