The Catholic Bishop of Otukpo Diocese, Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, has appealed for prayers following the abduction of a seminarian during an attack on his residence in Benue State.
The victim, Mr. Kelvin Ochai, was reportedly kidnapped on Wednesday when suspected bandits invaded the Bishop’s residence in the Asa III area of Otukpo Local Government Area.
The incident was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the Chancellor of the Otukpo Diocese, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo.
According to the statement, Bishop Apochi expressed deep sadness over the attack and urged members of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and people of goodwill to pray for the seminarian’s quick and safe release.
The bishop also extended prayers to other victims currently being held by kidnappers across the country.
“We commit our brother and all those in the kidnappers’ den throughout the country to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for their speedy and safe release from the hands of their abductors,” the statement read.
The latest incident underscores the persistent insecurity in parts of Benue State, where attacks and kidnappings by armed groups continue to raise concerns among residents.
