On August 5, members of the Nigerian military carried out an attack against Fr. Bernard Unum, priest in charge of All Saints Catholic Church Ikyaior, and his stewards. The soldiers arrived in the morning at the residence of Fr. Unum and assaulted him and others on church premises. The assault continued despite Fr. Umu identifying himself.

“They arrived in approximately six military trucks and motorcycles and proceeded to assault Fr. Unum and others present. During the attack, Mr. Cornelius Terhemen, Fr. Unum’s steward sustained severe injuries, resulting in the loss of an eye.”

The Catholic Diocese of Wukari released a statement describing the incident and condemning the attack. Furthermore, in the statement, the Diocese calls upon the government and the Chief of the Army Staff to identify the people responsible for the attack and hold them responsible, as well as to ensure a thorough investigation and appropriate compensation in the case.

“We demand the immediate return of Fr. Bernard’s confiscated phone and appropriate compensation for Mr. Cornelius Terhemen, whose eye was permanently damaged due to the assault.”

Despite the attack, the Diocese stated that they support the government to ensure stability and peace.

Source: ACI Africa