Benue Police Confirm Abduction Of Catholic Priest

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Rev. Fr. John Otache, the Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Aondogu Orchia, confirmed the incident on Friday in Makurdi, adding that an investigation had commenced and efforts were ongoing to rescue the priest.

Meanwhile, the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo disclosed that Otache was abducted on October 13.

In a statement signed by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo, the diocese said the priest was returning home from Otukpo when he encountered his abductors along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini Local Government Area.

Itodo expressed sadness over the incident, noting that the Bishop of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Apochi, was deeply pained by the development.

He called on priests, religious members, the laity and other well-meaning individuals to pray for the priest’s safe and speedy release.

The diocese also urged Nigerians to pray for other persons held captive by kidnappers across the country, expressing hope for their safe return.