A Catholic priest has reacted with strong criticism after reports emerged that an Islamic cleric allegedly placed a monetary bounty on the life of a pastor over claims that the pastor insulted Prophet Mohammed.
According to the report, the Imam initially announced a reward of ₦1 million for anyone who would harm the pastor, later increasing the amount to ₦2 million while reiterating his statement publicly.
In a video reportedly circulating online, the cleric was quoted as saying he would pay anyone who carried out the act, and even suggested the reward could be increased if the amount was considered insufficient.
The development has sparked widespread outrage, particularly from a Catholic priest identified as Father Kelvin Ugwu, who condemned the statement and drew attention to past incidents of religiously motivated violence in the country.
He referenced a previous case involving a student, Deborah, who was killed by fellow students over alleged blasphemy, a case that drew national and international attention and legal controversy.
Father Ugwu questioned what he described as inconsistent accountability in handling cases involving religious tensions, pointing out that individuals accused in similar past incidents had faced legal proceedings and public defence by numerous lawyers.
He further expressed frustration over the current situation, stating that the alleged threat against the pastor appeared to have attracted little or no immediate legal response.
The priest’s remarks have since generated debate online, with many Nigerians expressing concern over rising religious tensions and calls for stronger enforcement of the law regardless of religious affiliation.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the alleged bounty or whether any investigation has been launched.
