Most Rev. Simon Kofi Appiah, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Jasikan, has expressed deep sorrow and concern over a violent incident at Odomi in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region, which has left three people dead and seven others injured.
In a statement issued on June 19, 2026, Bishop Appiah described the incident as part of a troubling pattern of recurring violence in the area, warning that such developments pose a serious threat to peace, social cohesion, and human security.
The Bishop conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the prayers, spiritual solidarity, and pastoral support of the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Diocese. He also commended the souls of the deceased to the mercy of Almighty God, praying that they may rest in eternal peace.
Prayers were also offered for the injured, with the Diocese asking God, the Divine Physician, to grant them healing, strength, and comfort as they recover from their wounds.
Describing the incident as deeply troubling, the statement emphasized that violence, regardless of its causes, leaves lasting damage on individuals and communities, destroys trust, and undermines peaceful coexistence. It further noted that while violence may suppress tensions temporarily, it does not resolve underlying grievances, stressing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through dialogue, justice, mutual respect, and reconciliation.
Bishop Appiah made a strong appeal to all parties involved and the wider community to remain calm and exercise restraint to prevent any further escalation of tensions. He urged stakeholders to choose dialogue over hostility and understanding over suspicion in the interest of peace.
He also called on state security agencies, relevant institutions, and traditional authorities to intensify collaboration in restoring calm and creating an enabling environment for peaceful resolution of conflicts. According to the statement, the protection of human life and the preservation of peace must remain paramount.
Reaffirming the Church’s commitment to justice and peace, the Diocese of Jasikan indicated its readiness to support all genuine efforts aimed at dialogue, mediation, and reconciliation for a lasting solution to the conflict. It expressed confidence that even the most difficult disputes can be resolved when communities commit to listening and working for the common good.
He further appealed to all people of goodwill to join in prayer for the repose of the souls of those who have died in the recent and past incidents of violence, for the recovery of the injured, and for the consolation of grieving families. It also prayed for enduring peace in Nkwanta and the entire Oti Region.
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