Nigerian bishops have asked Catholics in their country to pray with the intention that the killings in southern Kaduna state cease.

Nigeria's bishops called on the international community to help the West African country in its fight against ethnic insecurity and terrorist groups such as Boko Haram.

Several Catholic bishops appealed to the Nigerian government to expedite actions that will lead to the release of Leah Sharibu and other girls held captive by Boko Haram insurgents.

The Catholic bishops of Nigeria are demanding that the government do something to stop the wanton killings and destruction of property throughout Nigeria that resulted from recent elections.

"It can no longer be regarded as mere coincidence that the suspected perpetrators of these heinous crimes are of the same religion as all those who control the security apparatus of our country, including the president himself," the bishops said.

The insurgent group kidnapped 110 schoolgirls last month.

The Diocese of Kafanchan, located in the area, estimated more than 800 people were killed, and damages to property and foodstuffs topped $17.5 million.

The release of the 21 girls was part of a deal brokered by the International Committee of the Red Cross and the Swiss and Nigerian governments.

"We don't even know what state they are in, and it is painful."