Catholic priests of Kaduna Archdiocese have defied the insecurity ravaging the Kaduna-Kachia axis by visiting the Awan community, where 12 people are still with bandits, to offer them hope.
In a video obtained by Advocatus Africa, a priest of the Archdiocese, Fr. Joseph Bamaiyi Shawuya, who was among the clerics that visited the ghost community, stated that “the priests of the Kachia Deanery gathered for their third-quarter deanery meeting at Holy Trinity Pastoral Area, Awon.”
“No farmers tilling their fields, no animals grazing. The silence is deafening.”
He lamented that the high level of insecurity in the area has led to abandoned infrastructure and a lack of government presence, stressing that despite the ugly situation, the people have remained resolute and vigilant.
“No farmers tilling their fields, no animals grazing. The silence is deafening. The fertile land that once sustained families now lies abandoned. Vast farmlands, rich vegetation, and rocky landscapes blessed with mineral resources have become symbols of the devastating impacts of insecurity. The sights are heartbreaking. One of the oldest secondary schools in the local government area stands empty and abandoned.
“A well-equipped hospital has been left without a doctor after a kidnapping incident. Even the customary court, once a center for community justice and conflict resolution, now sits abandoned.
“Even the customary court, once a center for community justice and conflict resolution, now sits abandoned.”
“To make matters worse, 12 members of the community remain in captivity. Yet, in the midst of these challenges, the people remain steadfast, with no visible security personnel stationed in the community. The youth remain vigilant, taking turns to watch over their ancestral land,” Fr. Shawuya decried.
Reciting a prayer, “Almighty, ever-living God, lead us to a share in the joys of heaven, so that the humble flock may reach where the brave shepherd has gone before,” the cleric maintained that “These words from the opening prayer of Good Shepherd Sunday came to life as the priests of the Kachia Deanery” met for their meeting in Awon.
He noted that “Like the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, who courageously goes before his flock, the priest embarked on a journey to a place many would hesitate to visit. One could even say that it is a place where many public officials will only venture with heavy security.
“The youth remain vigilant, taking turns to watch over their ancestral land.”
“The road from Angkor to Awan tells a painful story.”
Fr. Shawuya detailed that there was “a serious dilemma” concerning hosting the meeting in the area due to the high level of insecurity, which has forced the parish priest Fr. Abadigab, to reside in Gumel because of insecurity “while the parish house is still under construction.”
He went further to clarify that while “Many thought the meeting should be moved elsewhere, Father Matthew insisted that we should meet in Awan. Trusting in God and encouraged by his conviction, the priests agreed to make the journey.”
However, when they embarked on the journey, the young priest explained that “What began with uncertainty ended in gratitude, admiration, and renewed hope. The road from Angkor to Awan tells a painful story. Village after village stands deserted. Not a single soul in sight. No children playing.
Footage courtesy of Fr. Joseph Bamaiyi Shawuya.
The priest narrated how the courageous women left behind continued frying their gari to keep body and soul together.
“The women continued their daily activities, especially the production of gari, for which Awan is widely known. Indeed, many will agree that Awan produces some of the finest gari in Kaduna State. Their resilience is inspiring,” he disclosed.
“The women continued their daily activities, especially the production of gari.”
“One of the priests arrived with his rosary hanging conspicuously around his neck – an additional layer of security.”
He highlighted “moments of humor as well,” explaining that “Aware of the nature of the journey, one of the priests arrived with his rosary hanging conspicuously around his neck. Before long, fellow priests jokingly referred to it as an additional layer of security. The laughter that followed helped ease the tension and reminded everyone that faith often gives courage where fear seeks to prevail.”
The Dean of Kachia Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. James Adamu, who spoke on behalf of the priests, used the occasion to express “deep admiration for the courage and faith of the people of Awan.”
Fr. Adamu lauded the vulnerable community for their resilience while assuring them “of the Church’s continued prayers, solidarity, and support.”
Responding on behalf of the community, the village head, who described the presence of the priests “as a powerful sign of hope and encouragement,” thanked the priests “for identifying with the people despite the challenges.”
“For the people of Awan, this was a reminder that they have not been forgotten.”
Fr. Shawuya surmised that “For the people of Awan, this was more than a dinner meeting. It was a reminder that they have not been forgotten.”
According to him, “As we reflect on this visit, we appeal to all people of goodwill to support the ongoing construction of the parish house at Holy Trinity Pastoral Area 1.”
He used the opportunity to canvass for suport for the priest and parishioners of Awan to complet their rectory while lauding their courage and enduring spirit.
Rectory of Holy Trinity Pastoral Area, Awon, under construction; You can assist the community through Rev. Fr. Matthew Abadigab.
“We also encourage anyone who can assist the community in any way to reach out through Rev. Fr. Matthew Abadigab. Above all, let us remember our one and all, and the surrounding villages, in our prayers. Pray for peace. Pray for the safe return of those in captivity. Pray for the restoration of schools, hospitals, courts, farms, and livelihoods.
“For despite the fear, despite the losses, and despite the uncertainty, the people of Awan continue to stand. And in their courage, we see a powerful witness to hope, faith, and the enduring strength of the human spirit,” Fr. Shawuya maintained.
