Gunmen abduct Catholic priest in Kaduna

Gunmen, on Sunday, kidnapped a Catholic priest, Gabriel Ukeh, in the Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State

Ukeh is the presiding priest of St. Thomas Parish, Zaman Dabo Community, Zango Kataf LGA of Kaduna.

While confirming the incident in a statement, the Vicar General (Pastoral), Emmanuel Kazah, condemned the incessant kidnappings for ransom of citizens in communities.

The statement read in part: “While we solicit for 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 horn its security intelligence as we approach the celebration of Sallah.

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“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. 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 Kaduna State Police is yet to speak on the incident.