ABUJA, Nigeria — The judicial vicar of Nigeria's Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt has urged Christians in the West African nation to adopt a balanced approach of nonviolence while taking necessary steps to defend themselves in the face of growing persecution.
In an interview with ACI Africa, the sister service of EWTN News in Africa, following the resurgence of violence in Nigeria, Monsignor Pius Barinaadaa Kii stated that although Christianity promotes peace, believers must not ignore the need to protect their lives.
"Christian persecution in Nigeria is real. It is more pronounced in some parts of the country than others," he said during the May 4 interview.
He added: "Even though we adopt a nonviolent posture, we also have a necessary obligation to defend our lives and to defend ourselves to any extent that we can."
Addressing concerns about insecurity and targeted attacks on Christians, Kii reiterated the Church's long-standing commitment to peace while clarifying that this does not preclude self-defense.
He made reference to the teachings of Jesus Christ, explaining that while Christ advocated nonviolence, there were moments when he acknowledged the need for defense.
"Our Lord was a nonviolent person, because violence always begets violence," he said.
He however pointed to a biblical moment involving Peter to underscore his argument, saying: "There was a moment in the life of Christ when he told Peter, 'Sheath your sword, the moment will come when you will need it.'"
The Nigerian priest emphasized that Christians must remain vigilant and responsible in safeguarding their lives, especially in regions where attacks have become frequent.
Kii also addressed Nigeria's current economic challenges, acknowledging the hardship faced by citizens while expressing cautious optimism about ongoing reforms.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient and forward-looking despite the difficulties.
"Nigeria has been in a situation for a very long time," he noted, adding that while reforms are "very biting," they are necessary steps toward long-term stability.
"The president himself said it will not be easy, but we should prepare for a rough ride so that we have a smoother ride tomorrow," he said.
A canon lawyer, Kii expressed hope that the economic measures being implemented would eventually yield positive outcomes, likening the expected turnaround to the joy of Easter following the sorrow of Good Friday.
"We hope and pray that all the reforms will be quick for us at Easter in this country tomorrow," he said.
Reflecting on Nigeria's political future, particularly the 2027 general elections, Kii called for trust in divine providence and a renewed sense of faith among citizens. He urged Nigerians not to lose hope, emphasizing that God remains in control of the nation's destiny.
"God remains God on his own terms. Let God be God on his own terms," he said.
Kii said faith in God's plan is essential in navigating both political uncertainties and national challenges. He reassured Nigerians that the country is on a divinely guided path.
"God knows what he is doing in our country. God knows where he is taking our country to," he said.
This story was first published by ACI Africa, the sister service of EWTN News in Africa, and has been adapted by EWTN News.
