(LifeSiteNews) — Catholics in a persecuted region of Nigeria are coming together in prayer for a previously kidnapped priest and parishioners. Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi of Kafanchan in the Kaduna State issued a public call to prayer for Father Nathaniel Asukawaye and 10 parishioners who were kidnapped in February.
On the morning of February 7, armed men abducted the priest and parishioners from Holy Trinity Church in Karku during an attack that also left four parishioners dead.
“I ask everyone to pray for the release of Father Nathaniel Asukawaye and 10 parishioners who have been held captive since February 7, 2026,” Bishop Kundi said.
The diocese also confirmed that the priest is still held captive and urged the faithful to appeal to the Blessed Mother in this month of May.
“Father Asukawaye is still in captivity,” the diocese said. “Since Father Nathaniel is a chaplain of the Marian Society and coordinates the devotions in May and October, the bishop requests special prayers for his release and the conversion of his captors during this year’s May devotions.”
Nigeria has become a major center of Christian persecution in Africa, driven largely by attacks carried out by the Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram.
In the same region where the call to prayer echoes, Catholics were kidnapped in Kaduna during Easter celebrations.
On April 5, 35 people were abducted and five were killed in the Christian Ariko village. The attack targeted several churches in the region, including Catholic, Baptist, and Evangelical church members.
Another attack occurred on Palm Sunday when Catholics were the target of a mass shooting in Plateau State that left 11 dead.
“There were talks … that after (Ramadan) fasting, they are going to attack us, the Christians,” Archbishop Matthew Ishaya Audu said.
Bishop Kundi concluded his exhortation by calling for the swift release of all Christians held captive. He made a special appeal for the freedom of the victims, “especially those from our diocese.”