The Bishop of Nsukka Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd Aloysius Agbo has condemned in strong terms the brutal murder of Mrs. Bridget Agbahime by suspected Islamic mob over allegation of blasphemy at Wambai market in Kano State.
Addressing newsmen in Nsukka, Enugu State, yesterday, Agbo called on President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that justice is done by bringing perpetrators of the heinous crime to justice in order to promote peaceful co-existence in the country.
He said, “The brutal murder and beheading of a Christian woman in Kano is condemnable and the perpetrators of that crime must face the law of the land, to serve as deterrent to others.
“No matter what happened, it’s not enough to kill and behead her, as there are civilized ways for those behind the crime to seek redress.
“The murder of Agbehime is barbaric, cruel as well as a threat to peaceful co-existence of people irrespective of religious affiliations.”
He noted that the unlawful murder of Agbehime and the way the matter would be handled would be a ‘litmus test’ of the Buhari administration on issues concerning religion in Nigeria.
He added, “If it’s not handled with “kid glove” many people in the country and outside may be forced to believe the rumour in some quarters that his administration is making attempt to Islamise Nigeria
“The way this issue is handled will either avert or encourage people hiding under the guise of religion to commit crime.”
While calling on Christians in the country not to allow what happened in Kano to demoralise their faith, he reminded them that those who believe in Jesus Christ would face tribulations, temptations and persecutions.
“Those who believe in the gospel will face tribulations, temptations and prosecutions but at the end they will be rewarded with heaven.
“I urge Christians to remain faithful and steadfast and should not be afraid of those who can kill the flesh but cannot kill the spirit.
The bishop, however, advised Christians to continue to live in peace with their neighbours irrespective of religious affiliations and not engage in any form of reprisal as vengeance belongs to God.
“In spite of what happened, Christians should continue to live in peace with their neighbours no matter the religion affiliations since vengeance belongs to God.
“Both Christians and Muslims should remember that, God is watching and that we must account for our earthly stewardship before God on the last day,” the cleric said.
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