…“This bandits attack is not only against innocent clergy but a direct affront to the sanctity of human life,
ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Bandits have sparked fresh concerns over worsening insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after attacking two Catholic priests at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, Unity Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State.
The attack took place in the early hours of the morning when armed assailants reportedly invaded the parish house around 2:30 a.m., assaulting two priests, while the Parish Priest managed to escape unharmed.
The victims were identified as Rev. Fr. Comas Baye, the priest in residence and a Cadet of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI), and Rev. Fr. Chris Pever, a visiting priest and former Assistant Priest of the parish. Fr. Baye was also reported to be recovering from a partial stroke.
Both priests were immediately taken to Nativity Catholic Hospital, Jikwoyi, Abuja, where they received urgent medical care. Rev. Fr. Pever suffered serious injuries, including a fractured left arm, and underwent a successful surgical implant procedure. As of the latest reports, both priests were stable and responding well to treatment.
In response to the attack, the Abuja Grand Commandery of the Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International condemned the incident, describing it as a vicious assault on innocent clergy and a troubling reflection of the worsening security situation in Abuja and surrounding states.
The statement, jointly signed by the Grand President, Brig. Gen. Francis Ulonna Njoku (rtd), and the Grand Secretary, Col. Etta Peters (rtd), read: “We condemn in the strongest possible terms the heinous and reprehensible attack on Catholic priests at the Parish House of St. Rita Catholic Church, Unity Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State.”
The Knights emphasized that the attack was part of a disturbing pattern of assaults on religious leaders and places of worship in the FCT and neighbouring states. “This bandits attack is not only against innocent clergy but a direct affront to the sanctity of human life, religious institutions, and the moral fabric of our society,” the statement added.
KSJI called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the incident, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure they face justice without delay. The Order also urged all levels of government to bolster security around religious institutions and communities, warning that inaction could lead to repeat incidents.
The Abuja Grand Commandery expressed solidarity with the Catholic Diocese of Lafia, the clergy, and parishioners of St. Rita Catholic Church, offering prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured priests and for lasting peace and security across the country.
