The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria has strongly criticised the Federal Government and the Benue State Government over the continued killings in Benue.

In a statement signed by the CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji,  on Friday, the bishops said they were heartbroken by the “utterly barbaric” attacks on innocent people in the state.

“These cold-blooded attacks on defenceless communities where countless have been slaughtered, homes destroyed, and families left in anguish, are an affront to God, a stain on our shared humanity, and a terrifying reminder of the utter breakdown of security in our land,” the bishops said.

They accused both governments and security agencies of not doing enough to stop the killings.

According to them, it doesn’t matter if roads are built or salaries are paid, people must be safe first.

“No matter how well a government pays salaries or builds roads, its failure to protect human lives renders its achievements hollow.

“The sanctity of human life is supreme. It is sacred. It is inviolable,” they added.

The bishops said they recognise some good steps taken by the Benue state government, such as building roads and improving transport in Makurdi.

But they insisted that these efforts mean little if people are still being killed and living in fear.

They called on the federal and state governments to act now, arrest those responsible, and bring peace to the state.

“The relentless attacks on innocent and defenceless communities under the watch of civil authorities constitute a grave moral and constitutional failure. This carnage must end!” Ugorji said.

They also urged security agencies to do their jobs with more seriousness and stop the culture of impunity.