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, describing attacks on places of worship as an assault on the sanctity of human life.
The Bishops also condemned the killing of 47 people and the reported critical injuries suffered by 17 others in Ukum, Benue State.
The CBCN made its position known in a press statement issued on August 26, 2026, and signed by its President, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, on behalf of the Catholic hierarchy.
The Bishops expressed sympathy to the families of those killed in Benue and called for the immediate and safe release of the Muslim worshippers abducted in Niger State.
Quoting Genesis 4:10, “The blood of your brother cries out to me from the ground,” the CBCN stressed that no political, ethnic or religious cause could justify the killing or abduction of innocent citizens.
The Catholic Bishops said violence against Nigerians must attract the same level of concern and response regardless of where it occurs, stressing that whether an attack takes place in a mosque, church, market or private residence, the victims deserve protection and justice.
The Conference acknowledged efforts by the government to tackle insecurity but cautioned political leaders and security chiefs against complacency.
It urged security agencies to adopt proactive and intelligence-driven operations capable of identifying and neutralising criminal networks before they carry out attacks.
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The Bishops 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 CBCN 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 Bishops’ statement emphasised solidarity across religious lines, stressing that the protection of human life should transcend religious and ethnic differences.
The Conference called for renewed efforts to protect vulnerable communities, restore security and ensure that Nigerians can worship and live without fear of violence.
