The United States has urged Nigeria to strengthen protection for Christian communities following the abduction of more than 170 worshippers in Kaduna State on January 18. The incident has intensified concerns about religiously motivated violence in the country.
The abductors are demanding the return of 17 motorcycles, valued at ₦28.9 million, which they claim were seized during military operations. They have reportedly set the return of the motorcycles as a condition for the release of the victims.
US Under Secretary for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, highlighted Nigeria’s responsibility to ensure the safety of Christians and their freedom to practice their faith. She made the call during a US-Nigeria Working Group meeting in Abuja, emphasizing the wider implications of such attacks.
“Persistent attacks on religious communities undermine security gains and public confidence,” Hooker said, stressing the importance of counterterrorism efforts and ensuring perpetrators are held accountable.
Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, acknowledged the ongoing security challenges and promised intensified operations in affected areas. He described religiously motivated violence as unacceptable and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice.
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