Catholic Bishops Condemn Abduction Of Muslim Worshippers In Niger

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has condemned the reported abduction of more than 60 Muslim worshippers from a mosque in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

The Bishops also condemned the killing of 47 people and the reported critical injuries sustained by 17 others in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The CBCN made its position known in a statement issued and signed by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, on behalf of the Catholic hierarchy.

The Conference described attacks on places of worship as an assault on the sanctity of human life, calling for the immediate and safe release of the abducted worshippers.

It also expressed sympathy to the families of those killed in Benue State, stressing that no political, ethnic or religious cause could justify the killing or abduction of innocent citizens.

Quoting Genesis 4:10, “The blood of your brother cries out to me from the ground,” the Catholic Bishops urged Nigerians and political leaders to reject violence in all its forms.

The CBCN stressed that attacks on Nigerians must attract the same level of concern and response regardless of where they occur.

It said whether an attack takes place in a mosque, church, market or private residence, the victims deserve protection and justice.

While acknowledging efforts by the federal government to tackle insecurity, the Bishops cautioned political leaders and security chiefs against complacency.

The Conference urged security agencies to adopt proactive and intelligence-driven operations capable of identifying and neutralising criminal networks before they carry out attacks.

It also called for the swift prosecution of those responsible for acts of violence, including their sponsors, arguing that accountability was necessary to break the cycle of impunity.

Addressing bandits and kidnappers, the Bishops cited Galatians 6:7, “God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows,” and urged them to lay down their arms before facing divine judgement.

The CBCN emphasised the need for solidarity across religious and ethnic lines, stressing that the protection of human life should remain a shared responsibility.

The Conference called for renewed efforts to protect vulnerable communities, restore security and ensure that Nigerians can worship and live without fear of violence.