Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sokoto has decried the relentless persecution of Christians in Northern Nigeria, lamenting that perpetrators roam free without facing justice.
Kukah stated that despite the numerous attacks on Christians in the region, not a single individual has been charged to court. “If you look at our country – Nigeria, the issue is that, in Northern Nigeria, Christians constitute some of the groups that you can kill without consequences.”
The bishop also criticized the ethnic coloration given to Christianity in Nigeria, emphasizing the need to jettison such attitudes. “Tragically, you know, Christianity has become largely subordinated to ethnicity.”
Kukah stressed the importance of preaching the gospel without fear, regardless of the consequences. “It is not about friendship… We now need to come to terms with the essence that every day of our lives as Christians, we are challenged to martyrdom.”
The bishop’s remarks come amid growing concerns about the safety and well-being of Christians in Northern Nigeria. His message serves as a clarion call to action, urging Christians to stand firm in their faith despite the challenges they face.
