Pope Leo XIV has called for an end to escalating violence in Nigeria, following deadly attacks in Kaduna state that have left scores dead and dozens abducted. Speaking after Sunday’s noonday prayer in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope expressed sorrow over recent killings, including three villagers shot and 11 people abducted on Saturday, among them a Catholic priest in Kauru local government. Earlier in the week, at least 170 people were killed in Woro, northern Nigeria, in separate attacks.
The Kaduna Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed that gunmen attacked the priest’s residence, highlighting the growing insecurity in the region. In January, more than 150 Christians were abducted from three churches in Kaduna before being released this week. “I express my prayerful closeness to all victims of violence and terrorism,” the Pope said, urging authorities to act decisively to protect citizens. He also appealed to the faithful to pray for peace, stressing that lasting solutions lie in respect and brotherhood, not in military or economic power. Analysts warn that attacks by armed groups and extremists are spreading, as Nigerians increasingly criticize government efforts to curb violence in the conflict-plagued north.
