Abuja, Nigeria – Rev. Father Gabriel Ukeh, the Parish Priest of St. Thomas Parish in Zaman Dabo Community, Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, has been abducted by bandits. The kidnapping occurred in the early hours of Sunday at the parish rectory.
In a press statement released on Sunday, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Kazah, the Vicar General (Pastoral), expressed deep concern over the incident. He urged for fervent prayers for Rev. Father Ukeh’s urgent and safe release and condemned the recurrent kidnappings for ransom targeting innocent and defenceless citizens in their communities. Rev. Fr. Kazah called upon the government to enhance its security intelligence, especially as the celebration of Sallah approaches.
“We assure the community that the Church will cooperate with security operatives to secure the quick release of Rev. Father Gabriel Ukeh,” Rev. Fr. Kazah stated. He emphasized the importance of not resorting to vigilantism and promised to use all legitimate means to ensure the priest’s safe return.
The statement also invoked religious sentiments, “Through the intercessions of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Priests and Religious, may Jesus the crucified hearken to their prayers and hasten the unconditional release of His Priest and every other abducted person.”
When contacted, ASP Mansir Hassan, the Public Relations Officer for Kaduna State, stated that he would confirm the incident and provide further information.
The Church’s response highlights the broader issue of security and the need for more effective measures to protect communities from such criminal activities.
