By Atoyebi Nike
The Nigerian Catholic Priests Association (NCPA), Makurdi Diocese, has issued a powerful call to action, urging youths in Benue State to rise in defence of their faith, ancestral farmlands, and communities in the face of rising violence and deadly attacks.
Speaking during a pastoral gathering on Sunday, the chairman of the association, Rev. Fr Joseph Beba, condemned the recent wave of killings and persistent insecurity that has left several communities in fear and mourning.
“Our people can no longer sleep in peace. Our churches, farms, and homes are under siege. This is no longer acceptable,” Fr. Beba stated. “We call on the youth to remain vigilant and courageous. We must defend what is ours — not with vengeance, but with purpose, prayer, and unity.”
He stressed that while the Church continues to advocate peace and dialogue, self-defence and community vigilance have become necessary in the face of repeated attacks.
The priest described the violence as a direct threat to the survival of agrarian livelihoods and cultural heritage in Benue, a state historically known as Nigeria’s “food basket.”
“We are not calling for war but for awareness and preparedness. The people of God must not be passive in the face of aggression,” he said.
Fr. Beba also called on government authorities at all levels to act swiftly to end the bloodshed and provide lasting security solutions in affected areas.
Benue State has suffered repeated attacks by suspected armed herders in recent years, with entire villages sacked and scores of residents killed or displaced. Human rights groups have consistently flagged the crisis as a humanitarian emergency requiring urgent intervention.
