Unknown gunmen have kidnapped Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache, the Catholic priest in charge of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area of Benue State.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo announced the abduction in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by Diocesan Chancellor Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo.
According to the diocese, Otache was seized on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini LGA while returning from Otukpo.
The incident has caused deep concern within the Catholic community. Bishop of the Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed profound sorrow and appealed for prayers for the priest’s safe return.
“The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, is deeply pained by this sad development and has earnestly requested all Christ’s Faithful in the Diocese and all people of goodwill to pray for the quick and safe release of Fr John as we intensify efforts to ensure his release,” the statement said.
It continued: “United in one heart and mind, 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 from the hands of their abductors.”
The diocese urged the public to pray not only for Otache but also for other victims currently held by kidnappers across Nigeria.
This marks the second time a priest serving at St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, has been abducted.Benue State Police Public Relations Officer DSP Peter Aondongu confirmed the incident.
“I can confirm that. It happened on Tuesday. He has not been rescued yet, but our teams are still making efforts to rescue him,” he said.