Reverend Father Gabriel Ukeh, the parish priest of Saint Thomas Catholic Church in Zaman Dabo, Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, was kidnapped by bandits in the early hours of Sunday.
The Vicar General of the Kafanchan Catholic Diocese, Reverend Father Emmanuel Kazah, issued a statement urging the community to pray for Father Ukeh’s immediate and safe release.
He also condemned the ongoing kidnappings in the region, highlighting the vulnerability of innocent citizens.
“While we solicit fervent prayers for his urgent and safe release, we equally condemn this act of incessant kidnappings for ransom of innocent and defenceless citizens of our communities, and we call upon the government to hone its security intelligence as we approach the celebration of Sallah,” the statement read.
Reverend Kazah emphasised the importance of not resorting to vigilantism and assured that all legitimate means would be employed to secure Father Ukeh’s release.
He urged the community to trust in the intercessions of the Blessed Virgin Mary for a swift resolution.
“As we work with security operatives for his quick release, we wish to call on all to stay away from taking the laws into their hands.
“We will use every legitimate means to ensure that Fr. Ukeh comes back to us safe and sound. Through the intercessions of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Priests and Religious, may Jesus the crucified hearken to our prayers and hasten the unconditional release of His Priest and every other abducted person,” the statement concluded.
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