Bandits have attacked two Catholic priests at the parish house of St. Rita Catholic Church, Unity Estate, Mararaba, Nasarawa State, close to Abuja, raising fresh fears over insecurity around the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of the day, was said to have taken place at about 2:30 a.m. when armed assailants stormed the parish residence, stabbed the priests and fled, leaving them critically injured.
The parish priest reportedly escaped the assault unhurt.
Those injured were identified as Rev. Fr. Comas Baye, the priest in residence 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 be battling complications linked to a partial stroke.
Both priests were rushed to the Nativity Catholic Hospital, Jikwoyi, Abuja, where they received emergency medical care. Fr. Pever sustained severe injuries, including a fracture to his left arm, and underwent a successful surgical implant procedure.
As of press time, the two clergymen were reported to be in stable condition and responding to treatment.
Reacting, the Abuja Grand Commandery of the Noble Order of the Knights of St. John International condemned the attack, describing it as a brutal assault on innocent clergy and a stark reminder of the widening security gaps around Abuja and neighbouring states.
In a statement signed by its Grand President, Brig.-Gen. Francis Ulonna Njoku, and Grand Secretary, Col. Etta Peters, the Order said the incident reflected a disturbing trend of attacks on places of worship and ministers of faith.
The Knights urged security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, track down the perpetrators and ensure they are prosecuted.
They also called on governments at all levels to reinforce security around religious institutions and communities to prevent a recurrence.
The Order expressed solidarity with the Catholic Diocese of Lafia, the clergy and members of St. Rita Catholic Church, offering prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured priests and for lasting peace in the area.