US lawmaker condemns attack on Kaduna parish, calls for prayers, action

2026-02-09 - 17:20

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Riley M. Moore on Monday called for prayers for the safe return of Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye of Holy Trinity Parish in Kaduna, who was reportedly kidnapped alongside 10 others during a violent attack. In a post shared on his X platform, Moore stated that three parishioners were “brutally murdered by radical Islamic jihadists” during the assault. He described the past week as “some of the most horrifically bloody days in recent history for Christians across Nigeria.” Moore urged the Nigerian government to take decisive action to protect all citizens, warning that continued attacks on Christians constitute violent persecution. “The genocide of Christians must end, and it falls squarely on the Nigerian government’s shoulders to defend its citizens — all of its citizens,” he said. He concluded by asking the public to continue praying for the safety of those affected: “Please keep praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ.” The incident has renewed concerns over escalating attacks on religious communities in parts of northern and central Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for security interventions in vulnerable areas.