By Terdue Atondu, Makurdi
Fear has gripped the Catholic community in Otukpo Diocese, Benue State, following the abduction of Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache, Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, by gunmen.
Fr. Otache was reportedly kidnapped on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, along the Otobi-Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini Local Government Area of the state.
Sources said the priest was returning from Otukpo when he encountered the suspected kidnappers along the isolated stretch of road.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo confirmed the abduction in a statement signed by its Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo.
According to the statement, the Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and urged priests, religious, lay faithful and people of goodwill to pray for the priest’s speedy and safe release.
The statement appealed for divine intervention for Fr. Otache and other victims held captive by kidnappers across the country.
“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,” the statement read.
The latest incident has heightened concerns over the security of Catholic priests and other religious leaders serving communities in remote parts of Benue State, particularly those who frequently travel along isolated roads.
The abduction also adds to growing concerns about the safety of clerics amid persistent kidnapping incidents in the state.
As of the time of filing this report, the circumstances surrounding the abduction and the whereabouts of the priest remained unclear, while prayers continued among members of the Catholic community for his safe return.
