‘Herdsmen’ invade Catholic seminary, shoot priest

Suspected herdsmen invaded a Catholic seminary in Jalingo, Taraba state, on Monday morning, injuring some priests and students.

Evaristus Bassey, director of Caritas Nigeria, an agency of the Catholic Church, confirmed this to TheCable.

A priest was reportedly shot during the attack while two others were beaten up.

Those injured during the attack are said to have been admitted to the Federal Medical Centre in the state where they are being treated.

TheCable could not confirm the nature of the attack but some properties belonging to the seminary, including cars, were said to have been destroyed.

David Misal, spokesman of the state police command, confirmed the development to TheCable.

He, however, did not give many details, promising to get back to the reporter. “Give me some time”, he said.

Increasing attacks by suspected herdsmen has been a growing concern for security agencies in the country.

It is the second time in a little over one month that a Catholic establishment will be attacked.

In April, gunmen suspected to be herdsmen killed two priests at St. Ignatius’ Catholic Church, Ayar, Gwer east local government area of Benue state.

The deceased priests were identified as Joseph Gor and Felix Tyolaha. Some worshipers were also killed in the attack while many sustained injuries.

President Muhammadu Buhari has said on several occasions that his administration is doing all that is necessary to end the killings.

Pope Francis and US President Donald Trump are among the global personalities who have condemned the recent spate of attacks on Christians in Nigeria.