Mararaba, Nasarawa State — Suspected bandits have attacked two Catholic priests at the Parish House of St. Rita Catholic Church, Unity Estate, Mararaba, a boundary community close to Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The attack, which occurred at the church’s residential quarters, left both priests seriously injured, raising fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in communities around Abuja.
Victims Identified
The injured clergymen have been identified as Rev. Fr. Comas Baye and Rev. Fr. Chris Pever.
- Rev. Fr. Comas Baye, the resident priest of St. Rita Catholic Church, reportedly suffered severe physical trauma during the assault. Sources disclosed that he is currently battling complications described as a partial stroke following the attack.
- Rev. Fr. Chris Pever, a visiting priest and former Assistant Priest of the parish, sustained a fracture to his left arm. He has since undergone a surgical implant procedure, according to church sources.
Attack Near Abuja Raises Alarm
The incident occurred in Unity Estate, Mararaba, an area considered a gateway between Nasarawa State and Abuja. Residents say the attack has heightened fear among worshippers and locals, especially as criminal activities continue to spill over from neighbouring states into communities close to the capital.
As of the time of filing this report, details surrounding the identity of the attackers and whether arrests have been made remain unclear.
Calls For Improved Security
The attack has sparked renewed calls for increased security presence in boundary communities around Abuja, particularly residential estates and religious centres that are increasingly becoming targets of violent attacksAuthorities are yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
