Gunmen abduct Catholic priest in Kaduna, kill relative of another priest

The Archdiocese of Kaduna in Nigeria is appealing for urgent prayers after one of its priests, Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal, was abducted during a violent attack on the community of Kushe Gugdu in the early hours of Monday, 17 November.

Fr. Paschal, the Parish Priest of St. Stephen Parish in Kushe Gugdu, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was taken from his residence when armed assailants stormed the area. The attack left several residents abducted and claimed the life of the brother of another priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Yero.

In a statement issued by the Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Christian Okewu Emmanuel, the Archdiocese expressed deep sorrow over the incident and urged Catholics and all people of goodwill to join in praying for the safe release of the captives and the repose of the deceased.

“We call on all men and women of goodwill to join us in praying for their safety and quick release from the hands of their abductors,” the statement read. “We also pray for the peaceful repose of the dead. Amen.”

The attack adds to a troubling pattern of insecurity affecting communities and clergy in parts of northern Nigeria, where kidnappings and violence continue to disrupt daily life and pastoral work.

The Archdiocese assured the faithful of its solidarity with the affected families and pledged to keep the public updated as more details emerge.