Bandits Attack Catholic Parish House in Nasarawa, Injure Two Priests

Two Catholic priests were injured in an early-morning attack on the Parish House of St. Rita Catholic Church, Unity Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, near Abuja.

The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday when armed assailants stormed the parish residence. The attackers stabbed the two priests, while the Parish Priest managed to escape without injury.

The victims were identified as Rev. Fr. Comas Baye, the resident priest 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 reportedly suffered serious complications, including a partial stroke. Fr. Pever sustained severe injuries, including a fracture to his left arm, and later underwent a surgical implant procedure.

Both priests were rushed to Nativity Catholic Hospital, Jikwoyi, Abuja, where they received emergency medical care. They are currently in stable condition and responding to treatment.

In reaction 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 violent assault on clergy and an indication of worsening insecurity in and around Abuja.

In a statement signed by its Grand President, Brigadier General Francis Ulonna Njoku, and Grand Secretary, Colonel Etta Peters, the Order said the attack was part of a growing pattern of violence targeting religious institutions and faith leaders in the Federal Capital Territory and neighbouring states.

The Knights called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted. They also urged governments at all levels to strengthen security around religious centres and residential communities to prevent further attacks.

The statement further expressed solidarity with the Catholic Diocese of Lafia, the clergy, and members of St. Rita Catholic Church, and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured priests and improved security in the affected areas.