Unknown gunmen have kidnapped a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Peter Amodu, in Otukpo Local Government Area, LGA, of Benue state.
It was gathered that Fr Amodu, a native of Agbaha Otukpa in Ogbadibo LGA of the state, was kidnapped on Wednesday, July 6, 2022, along Ukwungaga-Otukpo express way while heading to his parish to celebrate Mass.
According to sources from the area, since his kidnap, nobody has heard anything from him or his abductors.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, has confirmed the incident.
In a statement signed by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo, the incident took place at about 5pm.
The statement said “We write to notify you of the kidnap of Rev. Fr. Peter Amodu, a priest of the Holy Ghost Congregation who is working in the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo as Parish Priest of Holy Ghost Parish, Eke-Olengbeche.
“The sad incident occurred 6th July, 2022 at about 5.00pm along Otukpo – Ugbokolo Road, Benue State, while he was on his way to celebrate the Holy Mass at Okwungaga-Ughbokolo.
“The Local Ordinary, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, has called on all Christ’s Faithful in the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and beyond to earnestly pray for his quick and safe release as we intensify efforts to ensure his release.
“We commend our brother and all those in the kidnappers’ den to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for their speedy and safe release from the hands of their abductors.”