US lawmaker calls for prayers for Catholic priest, 10 others abducted in Kaduna

A United States of America lawmaker, Riley Moore has called for prayers for the safe return of Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye and 10 others who were abducted by armed bandits in Kaduna State.

Asuwaye and the other abductees were said to have been kidnapped from the Holy Trinity Parish in Kafanchan Catholic Diocese, Kaduna on February 7, 2026.

Three other members of the parish were brutally murdered by the terrorists who invaded the church.

Reacting to an X post by Catholic Arena, Moore, who represents West Virginia’s second District in the US Congreess said the past week has been some of the most horrifically bloody days for Nigerian Christians.

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

“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,” Moore said.

Further warning that the growing genocide against Christians across Nigeria must come to an end, the lawmaker said the responsibility to protect the lives and property of Nigerians falls on the government of the day.

“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,” Moore added.