By DUMAH RANDONG
The Catholic Bishop of Jos, Most Rev. Dr Ishaya Audu, has urged Christians in Plateau State to love one another as communities continue to grapple with attacks that have claimed lives and displaced families.
The bishop made the call on Sunday during a thanksgiving service at St Lawrence Catholic Parish in Riyom Local Government Area, where he concluded a four-day pastoral visit.
Speaking on Pentecost Sunday, Bishop Audu explained that Pentecost was divinely ordained by God, unlike the Tower of Babel, which was a human initiative marked by confusion.
He noted that the miracle of Pentecost brought mutual understanding amongst different tribes, whereas Babel resulted in disintegration.
“It was a day to ask the Holy Spirit to return the people to love and appreciation of one another,” Audu said.
He urged the faithful to live godly lives as God-fearing peacemakers, adding that those who receive Christ will speak the language of Pentecost.
The bishop also appealed to the Plateau State Government to construct the road to Lwa to enhance security in the area.
Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine Piyo, representing Governor Caleb Mutfwang, extended the governor’s sympathy to the community over the loss of loved ones to persistent attacks, reiterating the government’s resolve to restore peace to the state.
Piyo advised local youths to be cautious, warning them against night mining, unauthorised movements, and entering unstable mining pits during the rainy season.
She urged them to remain security-conscious and to prioritise their education.
The Chairman of Riyom LGA, Sati Shuwa, thanked the bishop for the visit, noting that it greatly encouraged the people.
He highlighted that Riyom has endured severe security challenges, resulting in the loss of lives, destruction of homes and farmlands, and incidents of land grabbing.
The Gwom Rwei of Riyom, Da Samuel Jok, expressed gratitude to the bishop, emphasising that the visit provided much-needed comfort to the community following recent terrorist attacks.