The police command in Benue has confirmed the abduction of John Otache, parish priest of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini council area.
Police spokesperson Aondogu Orchia confirmed the kidnap on Friday. Mr Orchia said the command had commenced a full investigation into the incident and efforts were ongoing to rescue the priest.
Meanwhile, the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, in a statement signed by the diocesan chancellor, Joseph Itodo, said the priest was abducted on Tuesday.
According to the statement, Mr Otache was returning home from Otukpo when he encountered the abductors along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini.
The church expressed sadness over the kidnap, saying the Bishop of Otukpo, Michael Apochi, was pained by the development and called on priests, religious members, the laity and other well-meaning individuals to pray for the priest’s safe and speedy release.
It also urged prayers for other persons held by kidnappers across the country, expressing hope for their safe return.
(NAN)