Pontiff urges swift action as Archdiocese of Bamenda confronts abductors of priests
Pope Leo XIV has expressed grave concern over the worsening wave of kidnappings in Cameroon and Nigeria, calling for the immediate release of all those held captive. His reaction comes as the Archdiocese of Bamenda enters a tense standoff with armed groups following the abduction of Rev Fr. John Berinyuy Tatah VC Catholic University Ndop.
“It is with deep sadness that I learnt of the abductions of priests, faithful and students in Nigeria and Cameroon. I feel great pain, especially for the many young men and women who have been taken, and for their anxious families" Pope Leo XIV said
Speaking after Mass on Sunday 23 November 2025 in St Peter’s Square, the Pope said he was deeply moved by the news of priests, faithful and students kidnapped in both countries, describing the situation as a source of immense sorrow.
"I make an urgent appeal for all hostages to be released at once, and I call on the competent authorities to take prompt and appropriate steps to secure their freedom. Let us pray for our brothers and sisters, and for churches and schools to remain, always and everywhere, places of safety and hope.”
Watch Full Video by Vatican TV
His remarks came just days after 315 students and teachers were abducted at St Mary High School in Niger State, Nigeria, an incident that has intensified regional alarm over attacks on educational and religious institutions.
In Cameroon, the crisis continues to centre on the recent kidnapping of priests and faithful, seized on 15 November in Baba One by armed men claiming to be separatist fighters. A second group of priests and a layman who attempted to negotiate his release were also detained before being freed. The captors have refused to release Rev Fr John, demanding a ransom the Church has refused to pay.
During the Feast of Christ the King last Sunday, Archbishop Andrew Nkea addressed the entire Archdiocese, setting out a firm response that underscored the gravity of the situation. His instructions included daily prayers after Communion, the closure and evacuation of all Catholic institutions in Ndop Deanery should the priest remain in captivity, and a mass march to Baba One if there is no progress by week’s end.
The impact on the local community has been severe. Churches, schools and health centres rely heavily on clergy and religious personnel for their daily functioning. Their absence would affect thousands of families who already live under the strain of prolonged insecurity. For many, the Archbishop’s decisive stance reflects mounting frustration with the continuing violence that has marked life in the North West for nearly a decade.
The Pope’s intervention is expected to place further pressure on both armed groups and authorities to act. It also offers moral support to communities who have endured repeated kidnappings, torture and forced displacement.
As tensions rise and the search for Father John continues, the people of Bamenda, alongside families in Nigeria, are united in the hope that the captives will return safely and that places of learning and worship will no longer be sites of fear but centres of peace.
By Bakah Derick for Hilltopvoices Online
Tel: +237 694 71 85 77
