‘We are all not safe’ — Niger governor laments killing of Catholic priest

Abubakar Bello, governor of Niger, has condemned the killing of Isaac Achi, a priest of St. Peters and Paul Catholic Church.

The priest was killed by terrorists in Kafin-Koro, Paiko LGA of the state.

Achi was said to have been burnt to death by terrorists who attacked his residence at about 3am on Sunday.

The terrorists also shot a colleague of the priest, identified as Father Collins, while he was attempting to escape.

Reacting in a statement issued on Sunday, Bello said targeting a religious centre is the worst form of attack perpetrated by terrorists.

He described the incident as ungodly and inhumane, adding that the country is unsafe for everyone if a priest could be killed in such a manner.

“This is a sad moment, for a priest to be killed in such a manner means that we are not all safe, these terrorists have lost it, and drastic action is needed to end this ongoing carnage,” he said.

He condoled the Christian community and the Catholic Church over the death of the priest and assured that the government will intensify efforts to ensure the terrorists are apprehended.

The governor also prayed for the quick recovery of the reverend father who sustained an injury, adding that security operatives will adopt new strategies to avert such attacks.