Nigeria: Nigerian Bishop Stands Firm Despite Attack
Aug 07 2007
Postings >> Nigeria

A well-known Nigerian bishop is determined to stand firm, despite narrowly avoiding being killed in a violent attack on his family -- the second in 18 months.

A gang brandishing hammers, axes and diggers broke into the home of the Rt Rev Dr Benjamin Kwashi, Anglican bishop of Jos, Plateau State, at 2am on July 24.

It was the same men who had subjected his son and wife to an appalling attack last year, while Bishop Kwashi was abroad. In that raid, his son Ringi was beaten unconscious: his wife Gloria suffered such serious head injuries that she needed surgery to restore her sight.

In this most recent attack, the bishop's son Ringi was again attacked with force, according to Christian Solidarity Worldwide. Mrs Kwashi was physically unharmed -- but was horrified to be confronted with her attackers again.

Bishop Kwashi was taken into the yard and told he would be killed unless he gave the gang a large amount of money. He told them he did not have that kind of money, so they led him back into the house, to kill him in front of his family. Inside, the bishop knelt to pray, ready to die. But miraculously, the gang looted the house and left, without harming him.

'I am not discouraged but this is hard for Gloria as this is the second time she has been through this ordeal,' Bishop Kwashi said. 'I am continuing on with my work as I have decided that preaching the gospel is worth living for and it is worth dying for.'

• Praise God for the courage and strong witness of Bishop Benjamin Kwashi. Ask God to comfort, heal and bless his whole family.
• Pray that the newly elected governor of Plateau State, who has vowed to bring
  their attackers to court, will keep his word.