Members of the United States Congress have strongly condemned the recent mass abduction of worshippers in Kaduna State, warning that Washington will not tolerate what they described as a campaign of violence against Christians in Nigeria.
The statement followed the attack in Kajuru Local Government Area, where armed assailants stormed three churches during Sunday services and abducted more than 170 worshippers. Authorities later confirmed the kidnappings, saying security personnel had been mobilized to secure the release of the victims.
US lawmakers described the attack as “an unacceptable assault on religious freedom” and urged the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities. “We will not stand by and watch the massacre of Christians in Nigeria,” they said, stressing that persistent attacks undermine regional stability and bilateral relations.
The abductors have reportedly demanded the return of motorcycles they claim were seized during recent military operations as a condition for releasing the victims. The demand has further complicated negotiations and heightened fears among families of those taken.
Christian leaders in Southern Kaduna denounced the incident, calling it unprecedented and deeply distressing. They noted that this was the first time worshippers from three different denominations were kidnapped simultaneously, underscoring the worsening security crisis in the region.
On social media, Nigerians expressed outrage, with hashtags such as #PrayForKaduna and #StopTheKillings trending nationwide. Many criticized the government’s initial denial of the abduction, while others called for international intervention to protect minority communities.
The intervention by US lawmakers adds diplomatic pressure on Abuja at a time when Nigeria faces mounting criticism over its handling of insecurity. Analysts say the incident could strain relations if Washington perceives insufficient progress in safeguarding religious groups.
The Kaduna abduction has drawn sharp condemnation from US lawmakers, who insist they will not tolerate violence against Christians. The episode underscores both Nigeria’s deepening security crisis and the growing international scrutiny of how the government responds to religiously motivated attacks.
