Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis

By: Michael Mike

The Federal Government has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.

The departed Holy Father, the political head of Vatican City and the head of the Catholic Church, was described in the statement as a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.

The statement read: “Nigeria commiserates with the teaming population of the catholic church in the country and joins the international community, particularly the Catholic faithful worldwide, in mourning this immense loss. Pope Francis’ deep concern for the marginalized; including refugees, the poor, and victims of conflict, resonated strongly in Nigeria, where his calls for interreligious harmony and solidarity were a beacon of hope amid challenges.

“His historic 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including the suffering of Indigenous peoples, indeed set a powerful example of reconciliation. Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission.”

The statement further read that: “In this moment of grief, therefore, Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and the Argentine people, who gifted the world this extraordinary pontiff.

“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure.”

Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis

Bandit Attack in Kajuru LGA Leaves One Dead, Several Kidnapped

By: Zagazola Makama

Armed bandits attacked the Ruga Fulani settlement in Iburu Village, Kajuru LGA, on the night of April 18, 2025, resulting in the death of a 70-year-old man and the kidnapping of several individuals.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the attack occurred around 10:20 PM when the bandits opened fire on the residents. Alhaji Ahmadu Adamu, who was shot in the chest, was rushed to the General Hospital in Kajuru but was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.

The family of the deceased requested that his body be released for burial according to Islamic rites without a post-mortem examination.

Efforts are underway by security agencies, to locate and rescue the kidnapped victims and apprehend the perpetrators of the attack.

Bandit Attack in Kajuru LGA Leaves One Dead, Several Kidnapped

Security forces Restore Calm After Farmer–Herder Clash in Guma, Benue

By: Zagazola Makama

Security forces have restored normalcy to Tse-Ukough village in Baye-Yandev Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area following a violent clash between a Tiv farmer and a Fulani herder that left both men severely injured.

Intelligence sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on Sunday morning at about 10:30 a.m. and was triggered by a disagreement over the use of a local well.

Ushahemba Usula, a Tiv farmer, was molding blocks beside his well when a herder, Saleh Hassan, reportedly brought his cattle to drink from the same water source. Ushahemba objected, stating that the well was meant for drinking water, and asked Saleh to move his cattle away.

The argument escalated, leading Saleh to allegedly attack Ushahemba with a cutlass, inflicting deep wounds on his head and hand. In retaliation, Ushahemba reportedly overpowered Saleh, seized the cutlass, and struck him, severing his hand.

Both individuals sustained grievous injuries and were rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital (BSUTH), Makurdi, for emergency treatment.

The confrontation heightened tensions between the Tiv and Fulani communities in the area, raising fears of a possible communal conflict.

However, combined troops deployed to the scene successfully restored calm and are currently conducting confidence-building patrols to prevent further escalation.

Security urged both communities to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace.

Security forces Restore Calm After Farmer–Herder Clash in Guma, Benue