A United States lawmaker has strongly condemned reports of a mass abduction of Christian worshippers during church services in Kaduna State, northern Nigeria.
The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday when armed bandits attacked several churches and abducted more than 100 worshippers, according to local accounts. The attacks have sparked renewed international concern over insecurity and religiously targeted violence in parts of the country.
U.S. Lawmaker Reacts to Church Attacks
Reacting via X (formerly Twitter), U.S. Congressman Riley Moore described the incident as horrific and expressed alarm over what he characterized as repeated assaults on Christian communities in Nigeria.
Moore alleged that radical Fulani militants were responsible for the attacks, warning that Christians in some regions of the country face persistent and serious threats.
“Horrific news. Armed radical Muslim Fulani attacked three churches yesterday and kidnapped more than 100 Christian worshippers,” he wrote.
He further stated that Christian communities were facing an existential threat and urged the Nigerian government to take urgent action to secure the release of the abducted worshippers and strengthen protection for vulnerable populations.
Details of the Alleged Kaduna Abductions
According to reports, the abductions took place in the Kurmin Wali area of Kajuru Local Government Area while church services were ongoing. Sources cited by SaharaReporters said gunmen stormed multiple churches and forced worshippers to follow them at gunpoint.
A family member of one of the victims confirmed that more than 100 people were taken during the coordinated attacks. Reports also indicate that about ten abductees, described as vulnerable individuals, were later released by the attackers.
Security agencies have reportedly been notified, while residents await official updates from the authorities.
Kaduna’s History of Bandit Violence
Kaduna State has experienced repeated attacks linked to armed bandit groups in recent years. Earlier this month, bandits reportedly killed four members of a family during a nighttime attack in Kachia town, Southern Kaduna.
The victims were identified as Bitrus Bahago, his wife Justina, their son Ibrahim, and a relative, Adam Waziri. Residents said the attackers arrived in large numbers, opened fire, and injured several others, who were later taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Community members have described the situation as deeply troubling, noting that such attacks continue despite the proximity of security institutions in the area.
Source: Gistreel
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