AFRICA/NIGERIA – Priest kidnapped last week released

Abuja – Father John Inalegwu Otache, the priest abducted on 13 October along the Otobi Amejo–Ajegbe road, in the local government area of Ohimini in Benue State, north-central Nigeria, has been released .
“It is with hearts filled with joy and gratitude to God that we announce the release of our priest, the Reverend Father John Inalegwu Otache,” stated a communiqué issued by the Diocese of Otukpo, confirming his release after five days in captivity.
Bishop Michael Ekwoyi Apochi of Otukpo expressed his “sincere appreciation” to the priests, religious and lay faithful of the diocese, as well as to all people of goodwill, for their solidarity and prayers, which, he said, “made the priest’s safe return possible”.
According to statements released to the press by Benue State police authorities, Father Otache was freed by security forces along with five other people. The state police command confirmed the news on Sunday, 18 October.
“Fr John Inalegwu Otache, parish priest of St Margaret’s Parish in Ajegbe-Awume, in the Ohimini Local Government Area, regained his freedom on the evening of 18 October, after five days in captivity,” the authorities said in a statement.
Police spokesperson, Deputy Superintendent Aondogu Orchia told journalists in Makurdi that the kidnapping victims had been rescued by security personnel and taken to Otukpo University Teaching Hospital for medical examinations. Some sources also reported that local vigilante groups had taken part in the operation.

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