The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has condemned the recent killings and abduction of worshippers in Borgu, Niger State, and Ukum, Benue State, calling on the Federal Government and security agencies to urgently end the worsening insecurity across the country.
In a press statement issued in Abuja on August 26, 2026, the CBCN expressed deep sorrow over the abduction of more than 60 worshippers from a mosque in Borgu, Niger State, and the massacre of 47 innocent citizens, including 17 critically wounded people, in Ukum, Benue State.
The statement, signed by the CBCN President and Archbishop of Kaduna, Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, said the incidents reflected a “worsened breakdown of security” in Nigeria.
The bishops noted that Nigerians continued to be killed, traumatised and displaced in mosques, churches, marketplaces and even in their homes. They extended their condolences to the bereaved families in Benue State and prayed for the speedy recovery of the wounded.
The Catholic leaders also expressed solidarity with their Muslim brothers and sisters in Niger State, as well as with all Nigerians affected by insecurity. They described attacks on places of worship as attacks on the collective humanity of the nation.
While commending some efforts by the government, the bishops urged political leaders and security agencies not to relent until the safety and welfare of citizens were guaranteed.
They called for the deployment of proactive intelligence-led security measures to dismantle criminal networks before they carried out further attacks. The CBCN also demanded that perpetrators and their sponsors be brought to justice, regardless of their status or affiliations.
Addressing bandits, terrorists and kidnappers, the bishops urged them to stop the bloodshed, warning that human life belonged to God and should not be destroyed.
The conference appealed to Nigerians not to lose hope but to remain steadfast in prayer for peace, security and divine intervention in the country.
Praying that; “May the God of peace restore order to our nation, comfort those who mourn, and touch the hearts of those who inflict pain,” the statement said.