Nigerian cardinal warns about increasing terrorism

Bombings threaten 'long-standing' harmony between Muslims, Christians

Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan spoke to MPs on Parliament Hill Feb. 4.

Church burnings and bombings are becoming a disturbing trend in the African country of Nigeria. Cardinal John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan of Abuja explained the situation to MPs and Senators.

Deborah Gyapong reports from Ottawa:

Cars can no longer drive near Cardinal Onaiyekan's cathedral. Men can expect to be frisked and women have been encouraged not to bring big bags. 

The extremists say they are acting in the name of Islam, said Cardinal Onaiyekan, but they are "a group of criminals who do not represent the authentic faith of Islam." 

These criminals have attacked not only Christian churches, but also government installations and other Muslims, he said. They have killed imams who were preaching against their activities, but this side of the story is not getting out. 

Nigeria is about 50 per cent Muslim and 50 per cent Christian.

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