Nigerian priest John Inalegwu Otache freed after 5 days

Father John Inalegwu Otache, the parish priest of St. Margaret’s Church in Ajegbe-Awume, was released on the evening of Sunday, October 18, after five days in captivity. Security forces and local vigilantes rescued Father Otache and several other victims in Benue State, Nigeria.

Father Otache was abducted on October 13 along the Otobi Amejo–Ajegbe road in the Ohimini Local Government Area. Benue State police authorities reported that the rescue operation freed Father Otache and five other people, while some reports indicate as many as seven others were rescued. Deputy Superintendent Aondogu Orchia of the Benue State police command stated that the victims were taken to Otukpo University Teaching Hospital for medical examinations. Police also arrested two suspects in connection with the abduction.

The Diocese of Otukpo released a statement through its chancellor, Father Joseph Itodo, expressing gratitude for the safe return of the priest. Bishop Michael Ekwoyi Apochi thanked the priests, religious, and lay faithful of the diocese for their prayers and solidarity. Father Itodo also requested continued prayers for other people held by criminal gangs throughout the country.