It is unfortunate that innocent lives are targeted in public places and religious gatherings. Only cowards would carry out such attacks because it is easier for them to target unarmed civilians. The recent attacks on churches in Nigeria are one example. The explosions — claimed by the group Boko Haram — killed no less than 32 people and injured many others.
This recent development is alarming given that this same group has been responsible for at least 491 killings this year alone. There is no question that Nigeria cannot afford to become a victim of religious tension between Muslims and Christians. Hence, the onus lies with the authorities as well as community leaders to build bridges of confidence. This will prove to be crucial if extremist tendencies are to be fought and subdued.
