Catholic Priest Kidnapped in Anambra as Insecurity Worsens

Gunmen have abducted Rev. Fr. Jude Onyeka, a Catholic priest serving at St. Dominic Catholic Church, Abatete, in Anambra State. The attack took place on Thursday along the Building Material-Ugwunwasike Bypass in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area.

The Chancellor of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha, Prudentus Aroh, confirmed the abduction in a statement on Friday, expressing deep concern over the rising insecurity in the region.

No Contact from Kidnappers Yet

As of Friday, the abductors had not reached out to the church or the victim’s family. The Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha, Valerian Okeke, has urged the faithful to pray for Fr. Onyeka’s swift and safe return. Meanwhile, efforts are reportedly underway to secure his release.

“We entrust our brother, Fr. Jude, to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, praying for his immediate freedom,” Aroh stated.

Another Kidnapping in Nnewi

In a separate incident, another individual was abducted in Nnewi on Saturday night. Witnesses reported that armed men blocked the victim’s Mercedes Benz SUV at EdyBros Junction, Uruagu, and forcibly took him away.

When contacted, Anambra police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga said he was unaware of the incidents.

Rising Kidnapping Cases in Anambra

Anambra, like other states in Nigeria’s South-east, has seen a surge in kidnappings for ransom. Victims range from civil servants and business owners to politicians and students, with criminals operating boldly and without restraint.

Authorities are yet to announce any major crackdown or arrests related to these recent abductions.