A seminarian of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo in Benue State has escaped from the custody of his abductors, bringing an end to days of anxiety following his abduction during an attack on the Bishop’s residence.
The seminarian, Kelvin Ochai, was confirmed safe in a statement issued on Saturday by the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo.
According to the statement, Ochai escaped from his captors on Friday evening and made his way to Aliade in Gwer East Local Government Area, where he was reunited with his family without injury.
The diocese attributed his safe return to divine intervention and the prayers of Christians and other well-wishers who had rallied in support following his abduction.
“Through the prayers of the people of God, Kelvin escaped from the custody of his abductors on the evening of Friday, 31st July, 2026, and made his way to Aliade, Gwer East LGA of Benue State. He has since been safely reunited with his family and is unharmed,” the statement read.
Reacting to the development, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed appreciation to priests, religious faithful, and members of the public for their steadfast prayers and support throughout the period of captivity.
Ochai was abducted after gunmen attacked the Bishop’s residence at Asa III in Otukpo Local Government Area, an incident that heightened concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of Benue State. The circumstances surrounding his escape were not disclosed, while security agencies have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the abduction.
