Bishop Kukah: ‘Killing Of Christians Remains Unpunished’

Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Sokoto has expressed concern over the ongoing persecution of Christians in Northern Nigeria, noting that those responsible are often left unpunished. He lamented that despite the increasing attacks on churches in the North, no one has been prosecuted for such incidents.

Speaking virtually during the Silver Jubilee Anniversary of the Order of the Knights of St Mulumba Nigeria, Eko Subordinate Council, themed “Christian Martyrdom in Nigeria…a Building Block or Stumbling Block to Salvation or Patriotism,” held in Lagos, Kukah highlighted the ethnic bias being associated with Christianity in the country. He stressed that such attitudes need to be abandoned.

“In Northern Nigeria, Christians can be killed without consequences,” he remarked. “No one has been charged for burning churches or destroying Christian properties. Pastors and priests have been murdered in places like Adamawa, Benue, and Kaduna, yet the perpetrators face no justice.”

He warned against the ethnic and divisive mentality that has overshadowed the Christian faith in parts of Northern Nigeria, where Christians are often denied land to build churches, stating that this issue isn’t limited to Nigeria but can be seen elsewhere, like in Kenya.

Kukah emphasized the need to preach the gospel without political or ethnic boundaries, noting that martyrdom isn’t just about being killed but standing up for the truth.

Reflecting on his experiences during Nigeria’s military regime under General Abacha, Kukah recalled being warned that he might be killed for his outspokenness. He stressed that Christians are called to face daily challenges and potential martyrdom for their faith, even when it comes at great personal cost.