Jos, Nigeria:  Catholic bishops from the Ecclesiastical Province of Abuja have raised the alarm over the growing insecurity affecting communities across their dioceses, calling on the Nigerian government and international bodies to take immediate action.

The bishops, following a three-day meeting that concluded on August 21, expressed deep concern over persistent violence, displacement, and attacks on both civilians and church institutions. They highlighted recent incidents illustrating the severity of the crisis.

In June, an armed attack on the Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, resulted in the deaths of over 200 people and the displacement of at least 3,000 residents. Separately, in the Katsina-Ala Diocese, armed assailants believed to be members of a Fulani militia attacked St. Paul Ayetwar Parish, burning the priests’ residence, desecrating the church, and destroying vehicles and other facilities. The attacks forced the suspension of parish activities.

The bishops lamented that ordinary citizens continue to suffer without adequate protection and emphasized the urgent need for intervention at both national and international levels. They offered prayers for the victims and called for justice and peace in affected communities.

Additionally, the bishops warned against the proliferation of unauthorized religious sects and cautioned priests against involvement in partisan politics, urging church leaders to maintain focus on spiritual guidance.

Archbishop Ignatius Ayau Kaigama of Abuja Archdiocese and Bishop David Ajang of Lafia Diocese co-signed the statement, reflecting the unified concern of the province’s leadership.

The bishops’ appeal underscores the urgent need to address the security challenges in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, where violence continues to devastate communities, displace families, and threaten social stability.