A United States lawmaker, Rep. Reiley M. Moore, has condemned the reported abduction of more than 100 Christian worshippers in Kaduna State, describing the incident as “horrific” and calling on the Nigerian government to ensure the safe return of those taken.

Moore made the remarks on Monday via a post on X (formerly Twitter) while reacting to a report by Sahara Reporters that armed bandits attacked three churches in a Kaduna community and kidnapped worshippers during church services.

According to the report, the attackers stormed the churches in coordinated raids, forcing congregants away at gunpoint. The incident has once again raised concerns about the persistent insecurity in parts of northern Nigeria, where religious centres and rural communities have increasingly become targets of violent attacks and mass abductions.

In his statement, Moore expressed deep concern over the safety of Christians in the region, stating that they are facing what he described as an “existential threat.” He urged Nigerian authorities to take stronger action to protect vulnerable communities and prevent further attacks.

“More must be done to protect them, and I urge the Nigerian government to ensure the swift and safe return of all those who were captured,” Moore said.

As of the time of filing this report, Nigerian security agencies have yet to issue an official statement confirming the exact number of abducted worshippers or providing details on rescue efforts. Local residents, however, say fear has gripped the affected communities, with many calling for increased security presence.

The incident adds to a growing list of attacks linked to banditry and insurgency in northern Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom and assaults on civilians have continued despite repeated government assurances of improved security.