Catholic priests from Owerri say more than 50 clergy members have been kidnapped since 2015. The secretary of the Archdiocesan Priests Association told reporters that abductors target priests for ransom money. He said the government has done little to help them with this problem.
Kidnappings happen across Imo State, with other crimes like farm invasions becoming common. The situation affects the dioceses of Ahiara, Okigwe, Orlu, and Owerri badly. Okigwe Diocese reports the most cases with 47 priests taken. Two priests from Owerri and Orlu died during these attacks.
Many attackers are said to be Fulani herdsmen who act with growing violence. Women fear working on farms as hunger and poverty spread through communities. The priests promise to stay with their people despite the danger. They plan to keep speaking out about these problems.
The association asks the Department of State Security and other agencies to work with local watchmen. They hope this teamwork will make the area safer for everyone.
Kidnappings happen across Imo State, with other crimes like farm invasions becoming common. The situation affects the dioceses of Ahiara, Okigwe, Orlu, and Owerri badly. Okigwe Diocese reports the most cases with 47 priests taken. Two priests from Owerri and Orlu died during these attacks.
Many attackers are said to be Fulani herdsmen who act with growing violence. Women fear working on farms as hunger and poverty spread through communities. The priests promise to stay with their people despite the danger. They plan to keep speaking out about these problems.
The association asks the Department of State Security and other agencies to work with local watchmen. They hope this teamwork will make the area safer for everyone.
