Abducted Catholic Priest regains freedom

Kaduna Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Jeremiah Yakubu, who was abducted on Sunday, has been freed less than 24 hours after his kidnapping. The Chancellor of Kafanchan Diocese, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Uchechowe Okolo, announced the priest’s release in a statement on Monday night.

Rev. Fr. Okolo expressed joy and gratitude as he shared the news of Rev. Fr. Yakubu’s return. The priest had been abducted by armed individuals from the Rectory at Holy Trinity Parish in Karku, Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on Sunday, June 11, 2023.

According to the statement, Rev. Fr. Yakubu regained his freedom on the evening of Monday, June 12, 2023. Rev. Fr. Okolo extended his appreciation to everyone who had prayed and pleaded for the safe release of their fellow priest, as well as others who remain in the custody of their captors.

He earnestly prayed for the swift release of those still held captive.

He said,

“With hearts filled with joy, we raise our voices in a symphony of praises as we announce the return of our brother, Rev. Fr. Jeremiah Yakubu, who was abducted by armed persons from the Rectory at Holy Trinity Parish, Karku, in Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, at the late hours of Sunday June 11, 2023.”

Rev. Fr. Okolo also issued an instruction for all priests in their diocese to celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving to express gratitude to God for the quick release of Rev. Fr. Jerry Yakubu. The Mass was scheduled to take place on Tuesday, June 13, 2023.

The news of Rev. Fr. Yakubu’s freedom brings relief and renewed hope to the Catholic community in Kaduna, as they continue to pray for the safe return of others who remain in captivity.