A Catholic priest Rev. Father Gabriel Ukeh has been seized by bandits in the early hours of Sunday from his parish at St. Thomas Catholic Church, Zaman Dabo Community, in the Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The incident came on the heels of several adoptions in the community and according to the Vicar General (Pastoral), Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kazah, it is the latest twist in acts of lawlessness around the country.
“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 horn its security intelligence as we approach the celebration of Sallah.
“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.”