Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has criticized the torching of the church building of the Redeemed Christian Church of God by suspected hoodlums in Kontagora town.
In a statement released on Sunday in Minna, the state capital, the Governor described the attack on the church as “mindless and cowardly,” according to his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso.
Suspected hoodlums looted items and set the church ablaze in the early hours of Saturday along the Federal College of Education Road in Kontagora, as reported by the News Agency of Nigeria.
Governor Bago expressed that the burning and looting of the church not only targeted the Christian community but also challenged the peace and unity valued in the state.
The Governor stated, “We completely disapprove of this behavior and assure our Christian and fellow citizens in Niger that the government is committed to ensuring their safety, security, and religious freedom.”
He stressed, “Our state thrives on the diversity and peaceful coexistence of all religious and ethnic groups, and such acts of violence will not be tolerated.”
Governor Bago has instructed all relevant security agencies to promptly conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, with a promise to apprehend and prosecute the culprits.
He urged the people of Kontagora to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions, emphasizing the need to uphold peace and unity as a nation.
The Governor affirmed that his administration will take necessary measures to safeguard all places of worship to prevent similar regrettable occurrences.
Bago also called on state residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to authorities to prevent further such despicable acts.
He assured the affected Church members and the wider Christian community of the state government’s support.
NAN.