Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has issued an urgent appeal demanding full accountability and comprehensive protection for every citizen, declaring that the country’s security breakdown has reached an intolerable level. Signed by CBCN President Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, Archbishop of Kaduna on 26th August 2026, the statement decried the relentless campaign of violence, kidnapping, and terror sweeping through every geopolitical zone.

The bishops highlighted two horrific events illustrating the breakdown of order: the abduction of over 60 Muslim worshippers from a mosque in Borgu, Niger State, and the massacre of 47 innocent citizens in Ukum, Benue State, which left 17 others critically injured. Expressing deep sorrow and extending sympathy to the bereaved, the prelates stood in firm interfaith solidarity with the Muslim community in Niger State, demanding the immediate release of the captives and declaring that an attack on any place of worship is an assault on collective humanity.

Addressing government officials, security chiefs, and political leaders, the CBCN urged authorities to honor their constitutional duty to safeguard the populace. The bishops called for a shift toward proactive, intelligence-led security operations designed to neutralize criminal networks before they attack, while demanding swift prosecution for all perpetrators and their sponsors, regardless of their status or political affiliations.

Directly confronting the bandits and terrorists responsible for the carnage, the Catholic leaders invoked biblical passages to urge them to lay down their arms and respect the sanctity of human life. Reminding the violent actors that human life belongs solely to God, the CBCN concluded by urging all Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer, refuse to give up hope, and work together toward restoring peace and stability across the nation.

Below is the full letter as signed.