
Abducted Priest in Nigeria Released, Diocese ‘Grateful’
The case of Father Okide is the latest in a series of kidnappings and murders in Africa’s most populous nation involving members of the clergy, seminarians, and other Christians.
The case of Father Okide is the latest in a series of kidnappings and murders in Africa’s most populous nation involving members of the clergy, seminarians, and other Christians.
At least seven Catholic priests have been kidnapped in Nigeria in July, according to Aid to the Church in Need.
The consensus of security experts is that the Catholic Church is being targeted because it has has been paying the steep ransoms the terrorists have demanded.
The Nigerian priest noted that it would mean a lot to Christians in Nigeria to hear more from Pope Francis on the issue.
More Christians are killed for their faith in Nigeria than in any other country worldwide — at least 4,650 in 2021, and nearly 900 in the first three months of 2022 alone.
At least 4,650 Nigerian Christians were killed for their faith in 2021 and nearly 900 in the first three months of 2022.
Bishop Anagbe said that widespread terrorism by Islamist Fulani herdsmen in Benue State had made it nearly impossible to conduct pastoral visits in the area.
Father Bako, 48, was kidnapped by bandits following an attack on St. John’s Catholic Parish, where he served as pastor.
The Diocese of Zaria announced ‘with joy’ the good news regarding Father Felix Zakari Fidson.
Father Uchechukwu, chancellor of the diocese within the ecclesiastical province of Kaduna, thanked those who had prayed for the priest’s release.
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