Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has strongly condemned the latest surge of deadly attacks in Nigeria, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life and renewing his appeal for peace and protection of civilians. Speaking after the Sunday Angelus, the Pope said he was “saddened and troubled” by reports of violent assaults on multiple communities that have left dozens of dead and many others abducted.
Referring to the recent bloodshed, Pope Leo said he had learned with great concern of the attacks that struck several parts of the country, resulting in a devastating toll on human life. He assured the victims and their families of his prayers and spiritual closeness, particularly those affected by terrorism and persistent insecurity.
On the evening of February 3, violence reached a tragic peak when at least 160 people were reportedly killed in the village of Woro, located in Nigeria’s central-west region. The incident stands among the deadliest in recent months and has intensified fears among local communities already living under constant threat.
The Pope urged Nigerian authorities to remain steadfast in their efforts to safeguard citizens, calling on them to act decisively to ensure security and protect the dignity and lives of all people. He emphasized that the safety of civilians must remain a top priority amid the ongoing instability.
The violence has also been marked by a new wave of kidnappings. Over the past three days, at least 51 people were abducted and six others killed in coordinated attacks on four villages in Kaduna State. Security sources quoted by international media said the assaults occurred in southern Kaduna, a region largely inhabited by Christian communities.
These latest incidents come shortly after more than 180 people abducted in January were released, highlighting a troubling cycle of mass kidnappings that continues to terrorise residents and disrupt daily life.
Particular concern has been raised over an attack targeting the Catholic community in Karku, within the Kajuru local government area. Armed assailants abducted 11 people, including a Catholic priest, and killed three others during the early hours of Saturday morning.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan confirmed that Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, the parish priest of Holy Trinity Church in Karku, was taken from his residence around 3 a.m. The archdiocese described the incident as a violent invasion carried out by terrorists, which left three people dead and the community traumatised.
In response to the escalating violence ranging from jihadist insurgency linked to Boko Haram to attacks by heavily armed criminal gangs the Nigerian federal government has ordered additional military deployment. Acting on the instructions of President Bola Tinubu, an army battalion has been sent to the Kaiama district to reinforce security operations and restore order.
During the Angelus, Pope Leo also extended his prayers beyond Nigeria. He remembered victims of human trafficking worldwide and expressed solidarity with those affected by floods and landslides in parts of Spain, Morocco, Portugal, and Sicily, calling for compassion and support for all who are suffering.
The Pope’s appeal once again highlighted the urgent need for peace, justice, and effective protection of vulnerable communities facing violence and humanitarian crises.