AFRICA/NIGERIA – “In this Marian month, pray for the release of Father Asukawaye and his ten parishioners kidnapped in February”

Abuja – “I ask everyone to pray for the release of Father Nathaniel Asukawaye and ten parishioners who have been held captive since February 7, 2026,” said Bishop Julius Yakubu Kundi of Kafanchan, Kaduna State, in an invitation to priests, religious, and laity of the diocese to pray for the release of the priest of the Holy Trinity Church in Karku, in the local government area of Kaura, Kaduna State. The priest and ten parishioners were kidnapped by armed men in the early morning of February 7, 2026 . At least three people were killed in the attack. In his message for the Marian month, Bishop Kundi also asked for prayers “for the conversion of the kidnappers.” “Father Asukawaye is still in captivity,” the diocese clarifies, recalling his Marian devotion. “Since Father Nathaniel is a chaplain of the Marian Society and coordinates the devotions in May and October, the bishop requests special prayers for his release and the conversion of his captors during this year’s May devotions.” Prayers are also requested for the unconditional release of other kidnapping victims, “especially those from our diocese.”

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