Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty condemns Palm Sunday killings in Jos, urges justice, peace, and faith-driven hope for Nigeria.
Newsroom (02/04/2026 Gaudium Press ) In the wake of the deadly Palm Sunday assault that claimed at least 27 lives in communities under the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos, the Holy See’s representative to Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, has called for justice, prayer, and renewed faith in peace. Speaking to ACI Africa during the Chrism Mass in Abuja, the Irish-born Apostolic Nuncio expressed deep sorrow over the killings and solidarity with those left bereaved.
“I extend my sympathies and condolences to all the families whose lives have been wrenched apart in this horrible act of heinous evil,” Archbishop Crotty said, his voice somber as he reflected on the tragedy. “Once again, Nigeria has witnessed this evil,” he added, joining in the national cry to heaven for answers.
The prelate described the timing of the massacre—carried out during a significant Christian celebration—as deeply distressing. “This is particularly horrifying that this should happen again on a Christian feast such as Palm Sunday,” he said. “There is no justification for violence; there is no justification for war.”
“War Is Always a Defeat”
Archbishop Crotty used the moment to send a broader appeal to those in positions of power, reminding political and religious leaders that the pursuit of peace must remain paramount. “War is always a defeat; it is always a failure,” he warned, urging Nigerians to recommit to dialogue and mutual understanding. “We must quickly turn back to the path of peace, the path of dialogue, the path of de-escalation.”
He pointed out that while conflict is easy to ignite, its consequences can last generations. “It is very easy for wars to start; unfortunately, it is very difficult for them to stop,” he noted.
Justice and Accountability
The Nuncio called on authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice and to confront the deeper causes of violence that continue to undermine Nigeria’s fragile unity. “We pray that the perpetrators will be brought to justice and that the country may address these issues and ensure the safety of all its people,” he said, stressing that peace and security must transcend ethnic and religious boundaries.
A Message of Faith in Holy Week
As Christians worldwide entered the holiest period of the liturgical calendar, Archbishop Crotty linked the nation’s collective grief to the passion and resurrection of Christ. “This is Holy Week, a week when we reflect on the suffering and passion of Christ. Christ himself suffered persecution and death on the cross, so we know that Christ is at the side of those who suffer.”
His words sought to transform despair into spiritual resilience. “As he rose from the dead, those who are going through these moments of suffering and crisis will also receive the glory of God. This is the hope that we all long for.”
Prayer and Perseverance Ahead of Easter
Amid the sorrow, Archbishop Crotty encouraged ongoing prayer within the Church, emphasizing that priests serve as the spiritual lifeline of their communities. “We always, always must pray for our priests,” he reminded the faithful.
Looking toward Easter Sunday, the Nuncio described the celebration of Christ’s resurrection as a sign that light always follows darkness. “Easter Sunday is always a day of joy. We celebrate the resurrection of the Lord that, despite all the sufferings in the world, a bright new day comes.”
- Raju Hasmukh with files from ACI Africa
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