Insecurity in Nigeria “has lasted for too long”: Priest at Funeral Mass of Colleague

Killed when his Parish was attacked during the early hours of January 15, Fr. Achi is one of the latest victims of the attacks that started in 2009 when the Boko Haram insurgency emerged allegedly with the aim of turning Africa’s most populous country into an Islamic state. 

In the homily during the January 20 celebration, Fr. Gwimi said the late Fr. Achi’s popularity and deeds in Kaffin Koro “could have caused the desire for his abduction or even killing.”

“He (Fr. Achi) has been the voice of counsel and encouragement to the entire people of Kaffin Koro in the face of attacks by bandits in the area. People called him, some went to him for counsel on all kinds of matters,” the Nigerian Catholic Priest said, adding that the slain Priest “was a thorn in the lives and activities of bandits around Kafin Koro.”

Fr. Gwimi continued, “The gallant soldier and apostle of Jesus Christ, the hero of Kaffin Koro community, must have engaged his attackers in a fierce battle and would not allow them to have their way.” 

As Fr. Achi denied the bandits access to where he was, Fr. Gwimi said, adding that the attackers “resorted to igniting flames on the house either to force him out or be killed.”

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“Weakened by the fierce battle and probably wounded if not already killed, Fr Achi would have been suffocated by the poisonous smoke and was finally consumed by the fire of his sacrifice to God. The Lord found Fr. Isaac Achi worthy of suffering with Jesus,” Fr. Gwimi said. 

The Priest called on the government to be more proactive when dealing with insecurity in Nigeria. 

“While we acknowledge efforts being made at guaranteeing the safety of all,” Fr. Gwimi said, “We urge government and security agencies to be proactive rather than reactive.” 

“When you ask for political power and people entrust it to you, you have to provide security and protection. Remember that any innocent blood that is shed cries to God for justice,” he said.

The Nigerian Catholic Priest added, “The provision of security is the responsibility of the government and security agencies. Government and security agencies are sentries of society. A sentry does not sleep. A sentry is on duty 24 hours to ensure the safety of society.”