Kaduna State’s Christian Community Under Siege: 23 Pastors Killed, 200 Churches Closed by Bandits

Kaduna State—In a startling revelation, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the State, Rev. Joseph Hayab, disclosed that over the past four years, bandits have brutally killed 23 Pastors and forced the closure of 200 churches throughout Kaduna State.

Kaduna State Church Leaders Seek Police Intervention

Rev. Hayab made this harrowing announcement during a meeting held in Kaduna yesterday, attended by the Commissioner of Police, CP Musa Garba, and pastors representing various Church denominations from the state’s 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

During the meeting, Rev. Hayab shed light on the profound challenges faced by the Church due to the activities of criminal elements in the State. He recounted the horrifying account of a Pastor who had been kidnapped on August 8, 2023, revealing that more than 215 Christians remained in captivity within the Birnin Gwani forest of Kaduna State. Shockingly, the bandits compelled this kidnapped Pastor to lead prayers for the 215 Christians while in their custody.

Rev. Hayab implored the CP to comprehensively address this issue and others, emphasizing the urgent need to restore the people’s confidence in the face of these threats.

Pastors and Imams Urge Action Against Hate Speech and Drug Trafficking

Former Secretary-General of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) worldwide, Rev. Dr. Yunusa Nmadu Jnr, and other pastors who voiced their concerns during the meeting also called on the Commissioner to take action against Pastors and Imams who engage in hate sermons and divisive speeches. Furthermore, they highlighted the connection between drug trafficking and criminal activities, urging the CP to tackle the sale of hard drugs as many crimes were committed under the influence of these substances.

In response, CP Musa Garba reminded the pastors that criminality knows no religion, and individuals engaging in criminal acts should be treated as criminals, irrespective of their religious beliefs, tribe, or ethnicity. He stressed that security is a collective responsibility and called on everyone to contribute by providing information.

Kaduna State Police Commissioner Engages Religious Leaders

He also emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was to strengthen the relationship between the police and religious leaders, listen to their challenges, and work together to find solutions. CP Garba assured the attendees that the police force, under his leadership in the state, would do its utmost to fulfill its duty to protect lives and property. He concluded by emphasizing the importance of being each other’s keepers in ensuring safety and security in the community.