By Baron Ike
Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN)has condemned Sunday’s killings at a catholic church in Ozubulu, Anambra, describing it as “inhuman” and “barbaric”.
The bishops also called on government and security agencies to ensure the perpetrators were brought to justice.
The President of CBCN Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama who is the Catholic Archbishop of Jos, made the condemnation in a statement on Tuesday, August 8 in Jos.
The Police had on Monday, August 7 confirmed 12 people dead and many injured after the attack by unknown gunmen on worshippers in an early morning Mass at St. Philip’s Catholic Church, Ozubulu, Sunday, August 6 morning.
Police had linked the attack to suspected drug trafficking feud between two members of the community living outside Nigeria.
Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State and the police had also confirmed arrest of suspects, saying they would be brought to justice for importing their differences outside the state into Anambra.
It was believed the warring camps are drug barons residing in South Africa.
President Muhammadu Buhari and Acting President Yemi Osinbajo, both pledged to ensure that justice prevails and had admonished the police to step up their investigation game on the matter.
Prominent Nigerians and Anambra indigenes have also condemned the incident and called for sanctions.
On Tuesday, Kaigama said he was shocked and saddened over the attack as the eastern part of the country was never known for such act.
Kaigama said: “This attack is not only shocking but terribly `inhuman’ and `barbaric’, because when worshipers have become the target of evil men, then something is really wrong.
“The Conference of Nigerian Bishops condemns the killings and offer their thoughts and condolences to the good people of Nnewi Diocese.
“We also condole with our brother, Most Rev. Hilary Okechi, the Bishop of the Diocese.
“In spite of these attacks, Catholics in Nigeria continue to be strong and remain committed Christians who are ready to show their commitment to Jesus through a life of witness.”