The Catholic priest in charge of St Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State, Rev. Fr John Inalegwu Otache, has been kidnapped by gunmen.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo disclosed the incident in a statement issued on Thursday. The statement was signed by its Chancellor, Rev. Fr Joseph Aboyi Itodo.
According to the statement, Otache was abducted on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini. He was returning from Otukpo at the time.
Bishop appeals for prayers
The Bishop of the Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed concern over the abduction. He urged Christians and other well-meaning individuals to pray for the priest’s safe release.
“The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, is deeply pained by this sad development and has earnestly requested all Christ’s Faithful in the Diocese and all people of goodwill to pray for the quick and safe release of Fr John as we intensify efforts to ensure his release,” the statement said.
The diocese also called for prayers for other victims held by kidnappers across the country. It expressed hope for their speedy and safe release.
It further commended the victims to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In addition, it urged the faithful to remain united in prayer.
Police confirm abduction
The incident is reportedly the second time a priest serving at St Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, has been kidnapped.
When contacted, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the abduction and said efforts were ongoing to rescue the priest.
“I can confirm that. It happened on Tuesday. He has not been rescued yet, but our teams are still making efforts to rescue him,” the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, said.
The police did not provide further details about the suspected kidnappers or disclose whether any arrests had been made.
