The Catholic Diocese of Wukari has accused the Nigerian Army of an attack on its priest, Rev. Fr. Benard Unum of All Saints Catholic Church Ikyaior, Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.
The church, through a press statement, demands Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, to identify and hold accountable the personnel responsible for the act of brutality.
The statement reads:
Press Statement by the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Taraba State on the Attack on Fr. Bernard Unum and his Stewards by the Nigerian Military Personnel: A Call for Justice
On August 5, 2024, between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM, military personnel suspected to be from the 72d Special Force battalion, Makurdi, Benue State, arrived at the residence of Fr. Bernard Unum at All Saints Catholic Church Ikyaior, within the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Wukari Local Government Area, Taraba State.
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.
This unprovoked assault occurred within the church premises. As an institution that consistently collaborates with government bodies to promote development, justice, and peace, we are deeply shocked and dismayed by this incident. The attack continued even after Fr. Unum identified himself to the assailants.
We unequivocally condemn this brutal attack. We call upon the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja, to identify and hold accountable the personnel responsible for this act of brutality.
Additionally, we urge the Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas (Rtd), to ensure a thorough investigation into the matter and take appropriate action.
Furthermore, 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.
The Catholic Diocese of Wukari remains committed to supporting and collaborating with the government to ensure peace and stability in our communities.
As a law-abiding institution, we believe in the institution of government and anticipate prompt and decisive action from the government on this matter