Church members arrested over kidnap of priests in Plateau

Authorities have apprehended four suspected kidnappers accused of abducting two Catholic priests from the Pankshin Diocese in Plateau State. Shockingly, all four suspects are members of the same church, allegedly led by its financial secretary.

The victims, identified as Reverend Fathers Kenneth Kanwa and Jude Nwachukwu, were serving at St. Vincent De Paul Parish, Fier, before their abduction. The kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦25 million for their release.

Law enforcement agencies are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and the possible involvement of other individuals in the church.

This incident adds to a growing trend of kidnappings targeting clergy members across Nigeria. In recent years, criminal gangs and insurgents have increasingly focused on religious figures, viewing them as lucrative targets for ransom demands.

In July 2022, gunmen abducted Reverend Father John Cheitnum, a priest in Kaduna State, who was later found murdered. That same year, another Catholic priest, Reverend Father Christopher Omotosho, was kidnapped in Sokoto State, prompting nationwide outrage.

Just last year, in May 2024, gunmen seized Reverend Father Isaac Achi in Niger State and set his residence ablaze, leading to his tragic death. These kidnappings have sparked calls for improved security around religious institutions, particularly in regions plagued by violent crime and banditry.

As the investigation into the latest abduction unfolds, security experts emphasize the urgent need for enhanced measures to protect clergy members, who continue to face grave threats across the country.