Benue police launch investigation after Catholic priest abducted on Oct 13

Police confirm abduction The Benue State Police Command announced on 16 October that Rev. Fr. John Otache, the priest serving St Margaret’s Parish in Ajegbe‑Awume, was abducted on 13 October. The police public‑relations officer, identified as DSP Aondogu Orchia in three reports, said a full investigation had been opened and rescue efforts were underway. A separate Vanguard report quoted a DSP Peter Aondongu confirming the same incident, indicating a minor discrepancy in the officer’s name across sources.

Details of the kidnapping According to a statement from the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, signed by Diocesan Chancellor Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo, the priest was travelling home from Otukpo when gunmen seized him on the Otobi Amejo‑Ajegbe road in Ohimini Local Government Area. The diocese’s release, echoed by Daily Post, Punch and Leadership, placed the abduction on Tuesday, 13 October. The bishop of the diocese, Most Rev. Michael Apochi, expressed deep sorrow and called on clergy, laypeople and the wider community to pray for the priest’s safe and swift return.

Community reaction and previous incidents The kidnapping has heightened anxiety among the local Catholic community. The bishop’s appeal, reproduced in all four sources, urged Christians and people of goodwill to intercede for Fr Otache and for other individuals held captive across Nigeria. The Diocese of Otukpo also noted that this is the second time a priest from St Margaret’s Parish has been kidnapped; a prior abduction of Rev. Fr. Anthony Adikwu was reported three years earlier.

Ongoing response Police officials indicated that teams remain active on the ground, though no rescue had been confirmed at the time of reporting. The diocese’s statements emphasized reliance on prayer alongside the authorities’ efforts. No further details about the kidnappers, their motives or any ransom demands were provided in the available reports.

Context of insecurity in Benue Benue State has experienced recurring security challenges, including kidnappings linked to armed groups. While the current case involves a religious figure, the pattern aligns with broader concerns highlighted by state officials about threats from criminal elements. The police investigation is expected to examine possible links to these wider security issues.

The situation remains fluid, with the police and the Catholic Diocese continuing to seek the priest’s release while urging the public to support the effort through prayers and vigilance.