Posted by Chinenye on Fri 16th Oct, 2026 - tori.ng
Fear and concern have gripped a Catholic community in Benue following the disappearance of a parish priest in a suspected kidnapping.
(Rev Fr John Otache. Photo by nation News)
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the abduction of Rev. Fr. John Otache, parish priest of St. Margaret's Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area.
Police spokesperson DSP Aondogu Orchia made the announcement on Friday in Makurdi.
He said a full investigation is underway and efforts to rescue the priest are ongoing.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo said in a statement signed by Chancellor Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo that Fr. Otache was abducted on October 13.
He was returning home from Otukpo when gunmen intercepted him on the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini.
Bishop Michael Apochi of Otukpo is deeply pained by the incident.
The diocese has asked for prayers for the priest's safe release and for others held by kidnappers across the country.
The diocese recalled that a seminarian, Kelvin Ochai, was abducted from the Bishop's Residence in Otukpo on July 9, 2026.
About three years ago, Fr. Anthony Adikwu, then parish priest of the same church, was also kidnapped by armed men.