Bandits have attacked two Catholic priests at the Parish House of St. Rita Catholic Church in Unity Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, near Abuja, leaving them seriously injured.
The attack reportedly occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, December 30, 2025, when armed assailants stormed the parish residence. During the incident, two priests were assaulted, while the Parish Priest narrowly escaped unharmed.
The injured priests were identified as Rev. Fr. Comas Baye, the resident priest and a Cadet of the Knights of St. John International (KSJI), and Rev. Fr. Chris Pever, a visiting priest and former Assistant Priest of the parish. Fr. Baye was said to have suffered complications, including a partial stroke, following the attack.
Both priests were rushed to Nativity Catholic Hospital in Jikwoyi, Abuja, where they received urgent medical care. Fr. Pever sustained severe injuries, including a fracture to his left arm, and successfully underwent surgery. Hospital sources confirmed that both priests are currently in stable condition and responding to treatment.
Reacting to the incident, the Abuja Grand Commandery of the Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a brutal assault on innocent clergy and a troubling sign of worsening insecurity around Abuja and neighbouring states. The condemnation was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Grand President, Brigadier General Francis Ulonna Njoku, and the Grand Secretary, Colonel Etta Peters.
The Order warned that the incident reflects a growing pattern of attacks on religious institutions and leaders within the Federal Capital Territory and adjoining states. It called on security agencies to swiftly investigate the attack, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure they are brought to justice.
The Knights also urged governments at all levels to strengthen security around religious institutions and communities, while expressing solidarity with the Catholic Diocese of Lafia, the clergy, and members of St. Rita Catholic Church. Prayers were offered for the speedy recovery of the injured priests and for lasting peace in the affected areas.
