Kidnapping Chaos in Kaduna: Parish Priest Abducted in Midnight Raid

In the early hours of Thursday, April 24, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Kurmin Risga, a community nestled in the Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Armed bandits stormed the residence of Rev. Fr. Ibrahim Amos, the parish priest of St. Gerald Quasi Parish, and abducted him in what has sent shockwaves through the local Catholic community and beyond.

The abduction occurred around 12:15 a.m., according to a statement released by the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan. Confirming the heartbreaking development, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. Jacob Shanet, expressed deep sorrow and called for prayerful solidarity among the faithful.

“With profound sorrow, we write to announce that Rev. Fr. Ibrahim Amos… was abducted,” the statement read.

Matheus Nunes: Champions League Spot Would Be Manchester City’s “Premier League Trophy” Amid Disappointing Season

Chaos in Kurmin Risga: Kidnapping Sparks Calls for Calm and Prayer

The violent intrusion has raised serious concerns about the escalating insecurity in rural parts of Kaduna State, where armed groups have increasingly targeted both civilians and clergy. The Church has appealed for public support, urging citizens to remain peaceful and hopeful.

“While we solicit your prayers for his quick and safe release,” Rev. Fr. Shanet said, “we invite the general public to avoid taking the law into their own hands.”

He further stressed that all lawful avenues are being pursued to secure the priest’s safe return. Security agencies have reportedly been informed and are coordinating efforts to track the abductors and ensure the priest is unharmed.

The Catholic Church, known for its unrelenting spiritual and community work in Nigeria, has seen a worrying number of its clergy targeted in recent years. These incidents have not only disturbed the peace but have also disrupted the sense of sanctuary that religious institutions offer.

This latest abduction underscores the urgent need for improved security, particularly in volatile areas like southern Kaduna, where ethnic and religious tensions have been known to escalate into violence.

Rev. Fr. Shanet closed his message with a heartfelt prayer, entrusting the situation to divine intercession:

“May the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of priests and religious, and all the angels continue to intercede for us and bring him back to us safe and sound.”

As the community waits in uncertainty, the faith and resilience of the people of Kurmin Risga remain unshaken. The call for unity, peace, and fervent prayer continues to echo across the diocese.