US Lawmaker Decries Rising Attacks on Christians in Nigeria

A United States Congressman, Rep. Riley Moore, has described the past week as one of the bloodiest periods for Christians in Nigeria, following recent attacks that left worshippers dead and others abducted.

Moore, who represents West Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District, spoke after reports that suspected jihadist attackers killed three parishioners and abducted a Catholic priest, Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye, along with 10 other persons from Holy Trinity Parish in the Kafanchan Catholic Diocese.

In a post on X, the lawmaker called for prayers for the safe release of those abducted and urged the Nigerian government to take stronger action to protect all citizens.

“Please join me in praying for the safe return of Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye, who was kidnapped alongside 10 others,” Moore wrote, adding that the recent killings marked a particularly violent period for Christians across Nigeria.

He said it was the responsibility of the Nigerian government to end what he described as persistent persecution and ensure the safety of all communities, regardless of religious affiliation.

Moore recently visited Nigeria as part of a United States delegation on a fact-finding mission ordered by President Donald Trump to assess allegations of religious persecution in the country. During the visit, he met with government officials, church leaders, humanitarian organisations and internally displaced persons (IDPs).

The Congressman disclosed that attacks had also been reported in IDP camps in parts of Benue State, where displaced persons had sought refuge following earlier violence. He said survivors shared harrowing accounts of attacks on their communities, which he described as deeply distressing.

Speaking in a television interview, Moore said the testimonies he heard during the visit were shocking and underscored the urgent need for improved security and humanitarian support for affected populations.

He called on the international community to continue engaging with Nigeria to address insecurity, while urging sustained prayers and support for victims of violence.