The Catholic community in Benue State has been thrown into concern following the abduction of Reverend Father John Inalegwu Otache, the parish priest of St Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area.
The priest was reportedly kidnapped on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, while returning home from Otukpo. According to the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, the incident occurred along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road in Ohimini LGA.
The development was confirmed by the Benue State Police Command, which disclosed that efforts were underway to secure the priest’s safe release.
The police said investigations had commenced and security personnel were working to locate the abductors and rescue the clergyman. As of Friday, October 16, there had been no confirmed report of his release.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo announced the incident in a statement signed by its Diocesan Chancellor, Reverend Father Joseph Itodo. The diocese expressed sadness over the kidnapping and appealed to Christians and members of the public to pray for the priest’s safe return.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Otukpo, Most Reverend Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, was said to be deeply concerned by the development. He called on priests, religious communities, parishioners and other well-meaning individuals to unite in prayer as efforts continued to secure Father Otache’s freedom.
The diocese also appealed for prayers for other people being held by kidnappers across the country, expressing hope that they would be reunited safely with their families.
The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of religious leaders and other residents travelling along roads in parts of Benue State. Clergy members frequently travel between parishes and neighbouring communities to carry out pastoral duties, making their security an important concern for the Church and local communities.
Reports also indicate that this is the second time a priest serving at St Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, has been kidnapped, raising further concerns among members of the parish and the wider Catholic community.
The abduction comes amid broader security challenges in parts of Benue, where attacks and criminal incidents have affected residents, institutions and communities. The Church has continued to call for stronger security measures to protect lives and ensure that religious and community activities can take place without fear.
For now, the immediate priority remains the safe return of Father Otache. The police have said efforts to rescue him are ongoing, while the diocese continues to seek prayers and support from the public.
As the investigation continues, the priest’s family, parishioners and fellow clergy members are awaiting further information, hoping that he will be released unharmed.
