Nigeria: Church rejoices as priest rescued from kidnappers

Man praying in Middle Belt, Nigeria. Image © ACN

Source: Aid to the Church in Need

A Catholic priest abducted in Nigeria's Middle Belt has been safely freed following a rescue operation involving security personnel and local vigilantes.

Father John Inalegwu Otache, parish priest of St Margaret's Church in Ajegbe-Awume, Benue State, was kidnapped on 13th October alongside seven others and held for five days.

According to local media reports, officers from Benue State Police Command rescued all eight victims and arrested two suspects on Sunday (18th October) in connection with the abduction.

Otukpo Diocese welcomed the priest's safe return with thanksgiving, praising the prayers and support offered by Catholics and people across the region.

In a statement Fr Joseph Itodo, chancellor of Otukpo Diocese, said it was "with hearts full of joy and thanksgiving to God" that the Church could announce Fr Otache's return to the parish that had prayed and appealed for his safe return.

He added: "While giving all the glory to God, the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Rev Michael Apochi, sincerely appreciates all the priests, religious, lay faithful of the diocese and all people of goodwill for their show of solidarity and earnest prayers which led to the safe return of our brother."

Fr Itodo also called for continued prayers for others who remain in captivity across the country.

He said: "As we continue to commend to the Lord the lives of other numerous people who are held captives by criminal gangs in various parts of the country for their safe rescue, we pray that God will preserve us from all evil and restore sanity to our country Nigeria."

The priest's release ended a period of uncertainty for the local Catholic community but also highlighted the ongoing security challenges facing parts of Nigeria, where kidnappings for ransom have become increasingly common.

Despite these difficulties, Church leaders said the safe recovery of Fr Otache was a cause for gratitude and hope.

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Aid to the Church in Need: https://acnuk.org