INCESSANT KILLINGS IN NIGERIA: NEED FOR RE-EMPHASIS ON RESPECT FOR HUMAN LIFE FROM CATHOLIC PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Experiencing incessant killings in Nigeria in recent times as a result of bandits, unknown gunmen, herders/farmers clash, and other terrorist attacks, including politically motivated killings, it appears that the value of life is seriously depreciating among Nigerians. This trend has left some villages deserted; children made orphans, parents made childless, houses burnt and generally, degrading human life. Bearing in mind the place of life in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) of 1948, with the ever-important teachings of the Catholic Church on human life, this work discusses life as a value from a Catholic perspective. Using functionalist theory, which positions the Church as a part of society that should contribute to the well-being of the entire society, the position of the Church is presented as fundamental to all in respecting human life. Data were gathered from both primary and secondary sources of information. This work concludes in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church that life is of prime value, which nobody has the right to unlawfully take away, starting from the embryonic state until the author of life takes it. It recommends a concerted effort of the government and the people to protect life as sacred, and the Church should make an effort to teach this truth to all.