KIdnappers abduct Fr. Ogide of Umuahia Diocese

The local bishop has reportedly requested prayers from the faithful after Fr. Christopher Ogide, a Catholic priest serving in Nigeria's Diocese of Umuahia, was reported to have been abducted at the entrance of his parish house.

Following the kidnapping of one of the diocese's priests, Fr. Christopher Ogide, Nigeria's Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Michael Kalu Ukpong, urged the faithful of the Diocese to pray and maintain their composure.

The Diocesan Chancellor, Fr. Henry Maduka, said the Associate Pastor at Maria Assumpta Parish, Umuopara, was kidnapped at the gate of the parish house as he was about to drive out to buy fuel in a statement that diocesan officials shared with Vatican News.

The kidnappers had not yet made contact with the diocese, according to Bishop Ukpong.

However, the Bishop urged the faithful to pray for Fr. Ogide's release and safe return.

Personal security worries have grown significantly in Nigeria.

Attacks are on the rise, and the development of robbers, mysterious armed organizations, and religiously motivated armed groups is frequently blamed.

Lucrative ransom payments are also supporting what in Nigeria has effectively turned into a kidnapping industry.

Source