The Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Bago, has condemned the burning of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Champion Zonal Headquarters by unidentified arsonists.
The church located along Federal College of Education (FCE) Road in Kontagora, Niger State, was set ablaze by unidentified persons in the early hours of Saturday.
The incident marks a tragic recurrence, as the same church was similarly attacked and burnt down by unknown arsonists ten years ago.
At that time, the attackers had warned that the church building should not be completed.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, Governor Bago described the act as a direct insult to the peace and unity in the state.
Bago urged all relevant security agencies to conduct an immediate and complete inquiry into the occurrence to discover and prosecute the perpetrators.
The governor also called on citizens to be watchful and report suspicious activity to the security authorities.
The statement reads, “We totally condemn this act and tell our Christian brothers and sisters, as well as other Niger State inhabitants, that the government prioritizes their safety, security, and freedom of religion. Our state utilizes its diversity and the peaceful coexistence of all religious and ethnic groups. We will not condone this stupid act of violence.
“The Governor has requested that all relevant security agencies conduct an immediate and complete inquiry into this occurrence. We are convinced that the perpetrators of this horrible arson will be quickly discovered and prosecuted. The administration will see that those involved are punished to the fullest extent of the law.
“We urge the people of Kontagora and Niger State to be calm and refrain from revenge or violence. Let us continue to collaborate to preserve the peace and togetherness that define our magnificent nation. The government will continue to take all necessary precautions to protect all houses of worship and prevent such a regrettable occurrence from occurring again.
“Together, we can avoid further occurrences of such heinous atrocities and maintain the tranquility that we all seek. We support the members of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and the broader Christian community during this terrible time”.
