US Congressman Riley Moore Condemns Killings in Kaduna, Urges Nigeria to Protect Christians After Priest’s Abduction

Lawmaker calls for prayers and stronger action following attack that left three parishioners dead and a Catholic priest kidnapped.

A United States lawmaker, Representative Riley Moore, has called on Nigerian authorities to do more to protect Christian communities following the abduction of a Catholic priest and the killing of three parishioners in Kaduna State.

Moore made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X account on Monday, reacting to last week’s attack in which Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye of Holy Trinity Parish was kidnapped alongside 10 others. Suspected bandits were reported to have carried out the assault.

“Please join me in praying for the safe return of Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye of Holy Trinity Parish in Kaduna who was kidnapped alongside 10 others,” Moore wrote.

He described the recent wave of violence as deeply troubling and urged Nigerian authorities to take decisive steps to safeguard citizens.

“Three of his parishioners were brutally murdered by radical Islamic jihadists during the attack. The last week has been some of the most horrifically bloody days in recent history for Christians across Nigeria,” he said.

Moore added: “The genocide of Christians must end, and it falls squarely on the Nigerian government’s shoulders to defend its citizens – all of its citizens – and end this violent persecution. Please keep praying for our brothers and sisters in Christ.”

The incident in Kaduna has drawn attention to ongoing security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, where attacks by armed groups have led to repeated kidnappings and killings.

Nigerian authorities have yet to officially respond to Moore’s comments, but security agencies continue efforts to secure the release of those abducted.