Welcome to a glimpse into the life of courage and faith in the face of adversity. In a country where over 3,100 Christians lost their lives in 2024, the story of Nigerian priest Fr. Clément Chimaobi Emefu shines a light on the daily struggles and unwavering faith of Christians in the southeast region.
By Jean-Benoît Harel
“Those who threaten us with death make us stronger.” In the midst of the dangers faced by Christians in Nigeria, Spiritan priest Fr. Clément Chimaobi Emefu stands firm against fear. As a Canon Law professor at the Spiritan International School of Theology (SIST) in Enugu State, he serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for his students, believing that vulnerability only strengthens their faith.
While Enugu State boasts a Christian majority unlike the northern regions of Nigeria, Fr. Emefu warns that the threat to Christians is spreading nationwide. He speaks of a continuous process of Islamization in Nigeria, characterized by violence and neglect towards Christians.
A Rise in Kidnappings
One of the prominent dangers faced by Christians in the southeast is the increasing number of kidnappings. Over the past decade, more than 200 priests and religious individuals have been abducted in Nigeria. The start of 2025 has seen a worrying surge in such incidents, with several resulting in tragic outcomes.
Priests and religious workers, often traveling alone to serve communities, are particularly vulnerable. Despite the risks, Fr. Emefu continues to travel long distances on unsafe roads to fulfill his duties.
The Ethical Dilemma of Ransom
Recent cases, such as the abduction of Fr. Gerald Ohaeri, highlight the complexities surrounding ransom demands. While the Church maintains its stance against paying ransoms, the pressure to save a life often challenges this principle. Fr. Emefu emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to prevent further kidnappings.
A Silent Persecution
Aside from abductions, the presence of armed herders poses a silent threat to Christian landowners in the southeast. Fr. Emefu describes the increasing encroachment on farmlands by Muslim nomads, leading to displacements and intimidation of Christians.
Courage Amidst Risks
Despite the dangers, Fr. Emefu remains undeterred in his mission to be a voice for his students and community. He acknowledges the personal risks he faces but believes that facing threats only strengthens their faith.
Fr. Emefu’s story is a testament to the resilience and unwavering faith of Christians in Nigeria, who continue to stand firm in the face of adversity.
