Killings: NCPDA raises alarm over safety of Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese

The Nigerian Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), Makurdi Diocese has raised an alarm over the safety of Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF, Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, and his priest, Revd Fr Remigius Ihyula, following the Bishop’s courageous and truthful statements on the persistent killings, violence, and displacement of innocent citizens in Benue State and across Nigeria .

This was contained in a statement signed by Rev. Fr. Joseph Terfa BEBA, Chairman, NCDPA – Makurdi Diocese On behalf of the Priests of Makurdi Diocese.

Bishop Anagbe, known for his unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and the sanctity of human life, has consistently used his prophetic voice to speak out against the atrocities perpetrated against defenseless communities, especially in the Middle Belt region.

His pastoral concern for the suffering and displaced, particularly the victims of violent herdsmen attacks and militia invasions, is not only a moral obligation but a clear response to the Gospel imperative of defending human dignity.

His firm stance, rooted in truth and the Gospel of justice and peace, has awakened many to the urgent need for accountability and action.

It is therefore deeply troubling to hear rumours suggesting that the Nigerian government may be planning to arrest or intimidate Bishop Anagbe upon his return to the country. If true, such actions would represent a dangerous affront to freedom of speech, religious liberty, and the fundamental right of a pastor to speak in defense of his flock.

“We, the Catholic priests of Makurdi Diocese, stand solidly with our Bishop. We affirm that Bishop Anagbe has spoken the truth, a truth which many suffer in silence. Our people are being killed and driven from their ancestral homes on a daily basis, with their livelihood destroyed and eaten by cows. Homes and churches are burned down. Where is the lie in what we have suffered since 2001, and since becoming Bishop in 2014, the prelate has continued to advocate for justice in defence of his suffering people.

“We have intruders, the Fulani killers and bandits who don’t mean well for us, and we want them out of our land. This is not about any personality or personalities, it is about freedom and safety of our people.

” To target the Bishop for persecution would be to attack the truth itself and to deny the ongoing killings and sufferings of thousands of displaced persons whose lives have been upended by violence.