Catholic bishops blame poverty for Boko Haram crisis

The condemnation was contained in a statement which the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria issued Wednesday in Lagos. It was signed by the Deputy Secretary-General of the CSN, the Rev Fr Louis Odudu,  on behalf of the CBCN.  “It is regrettable that the activities of the Boko Haram movement have sparked off deadly clashes with security […]

The condemnation was contained in a statement which the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria issued Wednesday in Lagos.

It was signed by the Deputy Secretary-General of the CSN, the Rev Fr Louis Odudu,  on behalf of the CBCN.

 “It is regrettable that the activities of the Boko Haram movement have sparked off deadly clashes with security agencies

 “It has caused untold hardship and the loss of innocent lives and property in Bauchi, Borno, Kano and Yobe States,” the statement said.

 According to it, the crisis has especially affected Dutsen Tenshin, Bauchi, Maiduguri, Potiskum and Wudil towns.

It condemned any religious movement that would attempt to subvert the progress that the country had made in education and technology and disturb the law and order.

 “We condemn a descent to religious fanaticism that would destroy our national peace and stability,” the statement said.

CBCN noted that modern education and modern civilization did not preclude ardent religious devotion.

It recalled that Islam, as a religious practice from places like Al-Azhar had carried the light of learning through so many centuries and paved the way for Europe’s renaissance and enlightenment.

According to the conference, poverty is at the root of the current and previous violent hostilities in the country.

It urged the leaders of the movement to adopt a proactive approach to their religious practice to give honour and glory to Almighty God.

“As religious bodies, we must support one another and contribute to the growth and development of our country,’’ it said.

 The conference urged dialogue to resolve the crisis. (NAN)