Sopuruchi Onwuka

Senior religious and traditional leaders converged on Lagos over the weekend amid growing concerns over rising religious and ethnic tensions in Nigeria, as President Bola Tinubu was reported to be consulting key stakeholders across the country.

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The meetings came against the backdrop of renewed violence in several states and as the head of the Roman Catholic Church expressed sorrow over the scale of killings in Nigeria.

An Arik Air flight from Abuja to Lagos on Friday morning carried a large delegation of traditional rulers and religious leaders, including several emirs from northern Nigeria and senior palace officials. Curiosity among passengers reportedly grew when the aircraft captain acknowledged the presence of prominent dignitaries on board, including the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

Although the purpose of the trip was not initially disclosed, enquiries later indicated that the gathering followed reports of fresh religious and communal violence, particularly in Kwara State. President Tinubu, who was already in Lagos at the time, was said to have summoned an urgent meeting of key religious and ethnic leaders to discuss the situation.

Meanwhile, the President delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at the opening ceremony of the Nigeria International Energy Summit held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where international delegates and African heads of state were in attendance.

As the meetings were taking place, Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, expressed deep concern over recent violent attacks across parts of Nigeria. In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, the Pope offered prayers for victims of terrorism and communal violence following deadly incidents in Kwara, Katsina, and Benue states.

“It is with sorrow and concern that I learned of the recent attacks against various communities in Nigeria leading to a heavy loss of life,” the Pope wrote.

“I express my prayerful closeness to all the victims of violence and terrorism. I likewise hope that the competent authorities will continue to work with determination to ensure the safety and protection of the life of every citizen.”

His comments followed a wave of attacks that left dozens dead, homes destroyed, and residents displaced in multiple communities.

In Kwara State, gunmen reportedly attacked Woro village shortly after military operations were conducted in the area against what authorities described as terrorist elements. During the assault, shops were set ablaze and the residence of a traditional ruler was torched, forcing residents to flee into nearby bushes.

On the same day, suspected bandits carried out a deadly raid on Doma community in Tafoki Ward of Faskari Local Government Area, Katsina State, where more than 20 people were reportedly killed. Residents said the attackers arrived in large numbers, opened fire, and fled after causing significant casualties.

In Benue State, security operatives repelled an attack by suspected bandits on Anwase village in Kwande Local Government Area, although several houses were destroyed.

Residents said the attackers invaded the community around noon on Friday and set multiple homes on fire before retreating.