Pope’s Representative Urges FG To Tackle Unabated Killing Of Christians In Plateau, Kaduna, Niger

The Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria and representative of Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, has issued an urgent call to the Nigerian government, demanding intensified efforts to stop the incessant killing of Christians in parts of the country. The Vatican diplomat expressed deep concern that deadly attacks on Christian communities in states including Plateau, Kaduna, and Niger remain unabated, despite repeated appeals and condemnations.

Archbishop Crotty made the appeal on Saturday, April 11, 2026, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, shortly after presiding over ordination ceremonies and Mass for ten new Catholic priests at Christ the King College, Odolewu . Speaking to journalists during his three-day visit to the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode, the Pope’s representative lamented that the violence against Christians has shown no signs of slowing down. “These incidents must be stopped,” Crotty stressed.

The Archbishop, who serves as the Holy Father’s ambassador to Nigeria, disclosed that Pope Leo XIV is deeply troubled by the rising number of victims in Plateau, Niger, Kaduna, and Taraba states. He noted that the Pontiff has previously and publicly condemned the attacks, including those that occurred in Benue State last June. Crotty expressed disappointment that many of these atrocities go unreported and appealed to the Nigerian media to shed more light on the violence. “The Church’s message is clear: the killing of Christians and other Nigerians must stop, and those responsible must be held accountable,” he submitted.

This latest appeal follows a pattern of persistent violence in the country’s Middle Belt and northern regions. Just weeks earlier, on Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026, gunmen attacked communities served by the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos, leaving at least 27 people dead . In response to that attack, Archbishop Crotty had told ACI Africa, “Once again, Nigeria has witnessed this evil, and once again, people are turning their hearts up to heaven, asking, why is this happening?” He described the timing of the Palm Sunday violence as “particularly horrifying,” noting that it occurred during a major Christian celebration. “There is no justification for violence, there is no justification for war. War is always a defeat; it is always a failure,” he said at the time.

The violence in Nigeria has drawn repeated condemnation from the highest levels of the Catholic Church. In February 2026, Pope Leo XIV himself expressed “sorrow and concern” following attacks on various communities, including a massacre in Woro, Kwara State, where over 75 people were killed. The Pontiff had written on his official X account, “I express my prayerful closeness to all the victims of violence and terrorism. I likewise hope that the competent Authorities will continue to work with determination to ensure the safety and protection of the life of every citizen”.

Archbishop Crotty, during his April 11 address, commended the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria for their clear and firm stance on the crisis. He recalled their November statement, which called on authorities to guarantee the safety and security of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnic identity . “The Church stands firm with the bishops of Nigeria, not just as pastors but as citizens who desire peace and stability in their country. The primary common good is peace, security, and the well-being of all Nigerians,” he said.

The Archbishop also urged the international community and the media to take notice of the situation and join forces with the Church in demanding justice and peace for Nigeria. “The Catholic Church is urging the Nigerian government to intensify efforts to stem the tide of these nefarious activities, charging them with the responsibility to protect citizens and ensure the rule of law,” he added . His remarks underscore the Vatican’s unwavering commitment to promoting social justice and defending human life amid the brutal violence that continues to plague parts of the country.