Abducted Catholic Priest, Fr Amodu Regains Freedom In Benue

Rev Fr Peter Amodu, the Catholic priest, abducted by gunmen in Benue State on Wednesday has been released.

The abducted catholic priest was released on Friday at about 8:30pm, is in charge of Holy Ghost Parish at Eke-Olengbeche, under Otukpo Diocese.

Rev Fr Peter Amodu was abducted last Wednesday along Otukpo-Ugbokolo Road at about 5pm while on his way to celebrate the Holy Mass in Okwungaga-Ughbokolo.

Rev Fr Joseph Itodo, the Diocesan Chancellor, in a statement, confirmed the release of the Catholic priest.

The statement thanked the priests, religious, lay faithful, and people of goodwill who showed solidarity and offered prayers for the speedy and safe release of the abducted priest.

The statement explained, “It is with grateful hearts that we announce the safe release of our priest, Rev Fr Peter Amodu, from abduction. Fr Peter, who was kidnapped on July 6, 2022, at about 5pm along Otukpo/Ugbokolo highway, Benue State, was released unharmed today (Friday), July 8, 2022 at about 8:30pm.”

The Church prayed to God Almighty for the safe rescue of others in captivity in the hands of the kidnappers and other criminal elements in the country.

It could not be ascertained whether ransom was paid before the victim could be released.

SP Catherine Anene, the state PPRO could not be reached for reaction on the release of the Catholic priest.