Xenophobia: Catholic bishops communicate to Nigerian, South African govts-(CBCN)

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has condemned the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa where many non-nationals, including Nigerians lost their lives and properties.

A communique signed by the President and the Secretary of CBCN, Most. Rev. Augustine Akubeze and Most. Rev. Camillus Umoh, respectively, also condemned the reprisals in Nigeria and called on the governments of both countries to resolve the issue.

CBCN , however, commended the South African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) for their condemnation of the attacks and urged the government to take decisive steps to end it.

“We pray for the peaceful repose of those who lost their lives and sympathised with those who have suffered bereaved, injuries and heavy losses.

“We draw the attention of all nations to Deuteronomy 10:18 “He (God) defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigners among you , give them food and clothing.

“At the same time we note that South Africa and Nigeria have come a long way in fraternal and diplomatic relations. We advise Nigerians living at home and abroad to be good and law abiding,” they said.

The catholic bishops also urged the Federal Government to continue to do more in the fight against insecurity.

“We reiterate that without adequate security of lives and property, there can be no stability and enabling environment for meaningful development.

“We urge government at all levels to provide an enabling environment that will make it possible for both the government and the private sector to create job opportunities for our teeming youths.

“This will certainly minimise the menace of insecurity in our land, ” the communique added.