On August 5, the Nigerian military personnel invaded All Saints Ikyaior Catholic Church and assaulted Fr. Unum and his stewards, one of them losing his eye.
In a Monday, September 9 interview with ACI Africa, Bishop Mark Maigida Nzukwein acknowledged the efforts taken by the military to make amends.
“The assault on the Priest and his stewards, which led to a steward losing his sight, was a deeply distressing event for our community. I can confirm that the incident involved military personnel from Taraba, who travelled from Makurdi to carry out the operation. Brigadier General Kingsley Uwa, who commands in Jalingo, Taraba State, has taken full responsibility. He personally reached out and assured us that a thorough investigation is underway to understand why this happened and to hold those responsible accountable,” Bishop Maigida said.
He added, “General Uwa not only took responsibility but also apologized for the harm done to both the Priest and the steward. He acknowledged the trauma they endured and committed to making amends.”
“We are now focusing on the healing process, as both individuals have been significantly impacted by the incident. I have recommended that the military not only visit me but also physically meet with the steward to begin this healing journey. Their presence and acknowledgment are crucial for the victims' recovery,” the pioneer Bishop of the Nigerian Diocese that Pope Francis erected in December 2022 told ACI Africa September 9.
He continued, “I appreciate the steps the military has taken so far, but I remain concerned about the unanswered questions surrounding the assault.”
The Local Ordinary of Wukari called for collective efforts to heal the community and prevent future incidents.
In the September 9 interview with ACI Africa, Bishop Maigida reflected on the possible reasons for the military Parish invasion, saying, “What I heard is that they were saying that the priests were harbouring criminals.”
The Nigerian Catholic Bishop noted that the military knows where the “real” criminals are, “deep in the bush, where bandits and kidnappers operate with impunity.”
“They know where the bandits are hanging in the bush, but they will not go there. Instead, they come to the villages, arresting innocent people,” Bishop Maigida lamented.
He recounted how the Priest was subjected to physical assault despite identifying himself. “They met him in his house, asked him for his ID card, and when he brought it out, they started beating him,” he said.
Bishop Maigida further said, “It is our hope that this incident will lead to reforms, and we can continue with our farming season, ensuring food security and peace by the grace of God.”