Advertisement Messenger PublicationsMessenger Publications Would you like to advertise on ICN? Click to learn more.

Nigerian Archbishop warns against spread of false information


As unrest in the region appears to be subsiding today, Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama of Jos, the capital of Plateau State in central Nigeria, appealed for media not to publish information until it is verified. "The spread of false information incites the people and increases the violence," he said.

"The situation has returned to calm. Police and army are patrolling the streets of the city and have imposed a curfew. I cannot give figures on the number of victims, how many houses, churches, or mosques have been burned, in part because of the curfew that does not allow me to move about freely. I fear that both Christians and Muslims will inflate figures regarding their victims. The authorities should be impartial and honest in presenting data on casualties and damage to structures," said the Archbishop.

"It was affirmed that the spark that had caused the violence was from an attack and fire started at a Catholic Church. This has not happened. It is true that a Protestant church was burned. From what I have so far managed to find out, several churches have been burned, but most are not Catholic. I repeat: there are too many rumors, including one on the destruction of the Cathedral, which is absolutely not true."

To calm the people, yesterday (January 20) several Christian leaders, including Archbishop Kaigama, and Muslim leaders held a meeting. "Next Monday (January 25), the Islamic-Christian Joint Committee will meet to assess the situation and take measures to avoid similar incidents from happening again," concluded Bishop Kaigama.

Source: Fides

Adverts

Catholic Women's League

We offer publicity space for Catholic groups/organisations. See our advertising page if you would like more information.

We Need Your Support

ICN aims to provide speedy and accurate news coverage of all subjects of interest to Catholics and the wider Christian community. As our audience increases - so do our costs. We need your help to continue this work.

You can support our journalism by advertising with us or donating to ICN.

Mobile Menu Toggle Icon