The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Rev. Fr. John Otache, the Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Aondogu Orchia, confirmed the development on Friday in Makurdi, assuring that an active investigation is underway.
Orchia stated that police operatives have launched a full-scale operation to track down the kidnappers and secure the priest’s safe return.
According to a statement signed by Diocesan Chancellor Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo, the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo revealed that the priest was seized on October 13.
Otache was returning home from Otukpo when armed men intercepted him along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road.
Fr. Itodo expressed deep sorrow over the incident, noting that the Bishop of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Apochi, was profoundly pained by the news.
The diocese has urged priests, religious faithful, and well-meaning members of the public to join in continuous prayer for his quick and unharmed release.
Community members and security personnel remain on high alert as search efforts intensify across the local area.
