Deadly Attack in Kaduna as Bandits Abduct Catholic Priest and 10 Residents
In a devastating security breach that has heightened tensions across Kaduna State, armed terrorists launched a brazen assault on the Karku community in Kauru Local Government Area, resulting in multiple casualties and abductions. The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 7, saw bandits kidnap Reverend Father Nathaniel Asuwaye, the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, along with ten other local residents.
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to official statements from the Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan, the attackers stormed the priest's residence at approximately 3:20 a.m., overwhelming the community with superior firepower. Villagers described the assault as a full-scale invasion by heavily armed terrorists who operated with military precision.
The Diocesan Chancellor, Very Reverend Father Jacob Shanet, confirmed the tragic details in an emotional statement:
"With profound sadness, we announce the kidnapping of our priest, Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Asuwaye, the Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Karku. He was abducted alongside ten other people from the community. At the time of writing this report, the incident has resulted in the killing of three people: Mr. Jacob Dan'azumi, Mr. Maitala Kaura, and Alhaji Kusari."
Security Crisis Deepens in Northern Nigeria
The abduction of Reverend Father Asuwaye represents another alarming escalation in Nigeria's ongoing security challenges, particularly in the northern regions where kidnappings have become increasingly frequent and brazen. This incident follows a pattern of attacks targeting religious figures and community leaders, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among residents.
Reverend Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), expressed grave concern about the deteriorating security situation:
"This is a sad story; the kidnapping is getting too much. It is unfortunate that the abduction of Christian priests and other citizens remains unabated despite various security measures. We call on security agencies to intensify their efforts and bring this cycle of violence to an end."
Government Response and International Scrutiny
The Kaduna State Police Command has remained silent on the latest attack, with spokesperson Mansir Hassan yet to respond to media inquiries about the incident. This lack of immediate official communication has fueled concerns about the effectiveness of security responses in the region.
The assault comes amid mounting pressure on President Bola Tinubu's administration to address Nigeria's security challenges, which have drawn international attention and criticism. The United States government has previously expressed concerns about the persecution of Christians in Nigeria, adding diplomatic weight to the security crisis.
Broader Context of Regional Insecurity
This attack in Kaduna is not an isolated incident but part of a broader pattern of violence affecting multiple Nigerian states. Just recently, Kwara State experienced similar attacks where bandits killed three local vigilantes and stole over 100 cattle in coordinated assaults across Patigi and Edu Local Government Areas.
The Catholic Archdiocese of Kafanchan has called for sustained prayers for the safe return of all abducted individuals while urging security agencies to:
- Intensify surveillance and patrols in vulnerable communities
- Improve intelligence gathering to prevent future attacks
- Strengthen collaboration between security agencies and local communities
- Expedite rescue operations for all kidnapped victims
As the search for the abducted priest and other victims continues, residents of Karku and surrounding communities remain in a state of heightened anxiety, with many questioning when the cycle of violence will end and normalcy will return to their daily lives.
