Rev. Isaac Achi, a Nigerian priest, was burned alive in his home in Niger state on Sunday, local officials said.
Police said that gunmen failed to break into his home and instead set it on fire. A second priest living in the same compound escaped with a gunshot wound to his shoulder, reports said.
“Unfortunately, the bandits reportedly attempted to gain entrance into the residence, which seemed difficult,” said police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun. “[So they] set the house ablaze and the priest burned to death,” Wasiu said.
Niger state Gov. Abubakar Sani Bello said, “These terrorists have lost it and drastic action is needed to end this ongoing carnage.”
Nigeria is currently experiencing rising violence in the north and central regions, where armed groups are targeting rural communities and causing countless deaths. The attacks sometimes target religious figures, and international condemnation has been sparked by this incident.
“May the soul of very Reverend Father Isaac Achi and the souls of all the faithful departed rest in perfect peace,” the Diocese of Minna said in a statement.
The Nigeria’s Christian Association has called on authorities to investigate and provide more protection for civilians.
