US Lawmaker Reacts to Burning of Catholic Church in Taraba, Issues Strong Warning

United States lawmaker, Riley M. Moore, has condemned the reported burning of a Catholic church in northeastern Nigeria, warning about what he described as escalating violence against Christians in the country.

Moore made the remarks in a post on his X handle on Friday, reacting to reports that terrorists set fire to St. Mary’s Cathedral in Wukari, Taraba State.

Quoting a biblical passage, the Republican congressman wrote, “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

He added that the words of Christ remain a source of comfort amid the increasing attacks on Christians in Nigeria.

“At a time like this, there is no greater comfort than the words of our Lord,” Moore said.

He also highlighted the ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria, drawing attention to the destruction of the cathedral.

“Christians in Nigeria continue to be attacked for their faith. Recently, terrorists burned down St. Mary’s Cathedral in Wukari, Taraba State,” he said.

Moore further referenced the United States’ designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” over religious freedom issues, emphasising that the U.S. should not ignore the violence.

“The United States has declared Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern and we won’t stand idly by as Christians continue to face this violence,” he wrote.

Politics Nigeria recalls that Nigeria has faced recurring security challenges involving armed groups, bandits, and insurgents across several regions, with religious leaders and international organisations frequently raising concerns about attacks on places of worship and local communities.