The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called on the federal and state governments to urgently identify kidnappers involved in recent abduction incidents and ensure they face justice.

In a statement titled “Peace in Nigeria: Moving from Fragility to Stability”, jointly signed by CBCN President Archbishop Lucius Ugorji and Secretary Bishop Donatus Aihmiosion Ogun, the bishops decried the worsening security situation, which they said has claimed countless lives, destroyed communities, and displaced thousands.

They urged authorities to rescue all abducted persons and investigate alleged delays in security responses, emphasizing the need to rebuild public trust. CBCN noted that the insecurity affects not only Christians but also Muslims and other ethnic groups.

The bishops cited recent incidents, including the abduction of worshippers in Kwara, 25 girls in Kebbi, 13 female farmers in Borno, and over 265 schoolchildren and teachers in Niger State, as well as the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba and numerous security personnel.

“When criminals can strike schools, farms, and communities with impunity, it threatens the very foundations of family life, education, and social stability,” CBCN stated. They stressed the government’s constitutional duty under Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution to protect citizens and end the violence.

The bishops also highlighted systemic issues, including overreach by Sharia courts, destruction of Christian places of worship, and abuses by morality enforcement groups like the Hisbah, noting that these actions have violated the rights and freedoms of Christian minorities and, in some cases, Muslims.

“The brutal killing of Deborah Samuel Yakubu in Sokoto is a stark reminder of the dangers of impunity,” the statement read. “Justice must prevail to uphold the rule of law and protect all citizens.”

CBCN urged Nigerians to remain united across religious, ethnic, and political lines, advocating dialogue, justice, and mutual respect as the foundations for lasting peace. “Every Nigerian is called to be an agent of healing,” the bishops said, stressing that national harmony requires collective responsibility.