The Catholic community in Kaduna has been thrown into fresh distress following the abduction of Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal, a parish priest serving at St. Stephen Parish in Kushe Gugdu, Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The attack occurred in the early hours of Monday, November 17, 2025, when armed bandits stormed the community and whisked away several residents, including Fr. Paschal, from his residence.
The Archdiocese of Kaduna confirmed the incident on Monday, describing it as yet another blow to a region already grappling with relentless bandit violence.
In a letter addressed to priests, religious, and lay faithful, the Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Christian Okewu Emmanuel, described the situation as heartbreaking.
“I write to inform you of the attack on Kushe Gugdu and the abduction of one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal… During the attack, many others were abducted, and the brother of Rev. Fr. Anthony Yero was killed,” the Chancellor said.
He further appealed to the faithful and the general public for spiritual support:
“We call on all men and women of goodwill to join us in praying for their safety and quick release from the hands of their abductors, and for the peaceful repose of the dead. Amen.”