Bandits Abduct Catholic Priest in Kaduna

Bandits have abducted Rev. Father Gabriel Ukeh, the presiding priest of St. Thomas Parish in Zaman Dabo Community, Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The abduction occurred at the parish rectory in the early hours of Sunday.

Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kazah, the Vicar General (Pastoral), confirmed the incident in a press statement on Sunday. He called for fervent prayers for the priest’s urgent and safe release and condemned the frequent kidnappings of innocent citizens. He urged the government to enhance its security intelligence, especially with the upcoming Sallah celebrations.

Kazah emphasized the importance of working with security operatives for Fr. Ukeh’s quick release and advised against taking the law into one’s own hands. He assured that all legitimate means would be used to ensure the priest’s safe return.

“Through the intercessions of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Priests and Religious, may Jesus the crucified hearken to our prayers and hasten the unconditional release of His Priest and every other abducted person,” he added.

The Kaduna State Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, has not yet issued an official statement on the incident.