Gunmen Kidnap Catholic Priest In Benue, Police Launch Rescue

The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo has announced the kidnap of one of its priests, Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache, with the police confirming a rescue operation is underway.

Fr. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Otache, Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, was abducted on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, while returning home from Otukpo along Otobi-Amejo–Ajegbe Road in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.

In a statement, the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo, said Bishop Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi was deeply pained by the development and has called for prayers for the priest’s quick and safe release.

“It is with great sadness that we write to notify you of the kidnap of one of our priests, Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache… He was going home from Otukpo when he ran into the kidnappers,” Fr. Itodo said.

“We commend our brother, Fr. John, and all those in the kidnappers’ den throughout the country to the efficacious intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for their speedy and safe release,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command confirmed the abduction on Friday in Makurdi.

Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Aondogu Orchia, said the command has commenced full investigation and efforts were ongoing to rescue the priest.