The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Benue State, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has called on members of the Catholic Women Organization of Nigeria (CWO) to stand firm in defending the Church and the Christian faith amid persistent attacks that have forced the closure of several parishes across the state.
Chief Aondoakaa made the call while addressing the 2026 Diocesan Seminar of CWO, Makurdi Diocese, held at St. Dominic’s Parish, Sachi, Makurdi.
The former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice expressed concern that no fewer than 25 parishes under the Makurdi Diocese had been forced to shut down following repeated terrorist attacks, compelling priests and parishioners to flee their communities and seek refuge in the state capital.
He urged the Catholic women, whom he described as mothers of the Church, to rise above political differences and remain steadfast in protecting the Church, its leadership and the Christian faith, regardless of the circumstances.
Chief Aondoakaa also commended the Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, the Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, for his continued advocacy against attacks on communities in Benue State, particularly his efforts to draw international attention to the plight of affected populations and seek justice for victims.
He noted that Bishop Anagbe had faced vilification for speaking out against what he described as an agenda to invade and occupy communities in the state, but had remained resolute in raising his voice against the situation.
The PDP governorship candidate said the seminar was holding at a critical time, expressing hope that discussions and recommendations from the gathering would produce positive outcomes for the Church and society.
Earlier, the Makurdi Diocesan President of CWO, Lady Comfort Kucha, and the Chairman of the seminar’s Central Planning Committee, Lady Janice Pine, described the event as an opportunity for formation, reflection, renewal and action.
They said the seminar was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of their Christian vocation and equip them to become more effective guardians of human dignity and promoters of peace.
Also in attendance was the PDP candidate for Benue North-West Senatorial District, Dr. Eunice Ortom.
