Gunmen kidnap Catholic priest in Benue

On October 16, 2026, Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache, the Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s Parish in Ajegbe-Awume, was kidnapped by unknown gunmen along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe road in Ohimini Local Government Area, Benue State. The abduction occurred while he was returning from Otukpo, prompting immediate concern from local authorities and the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, which confirmed the incident.

The Benue State Police Command has acknowledged the kidnapping and stated that an investigation is underway. Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Aondogu Orchia, indicated that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the priest. The situation remains tense as the community and church officials await further developments regarding his safety and the actions being taken by law enforcement to address the rising incidents of kidnapping in the region.

Reported by Vanguard, The Nation, Daily Trust, Leadership, Punch, Nigerian Tribune, Daily Post, Premium Times, Channels Television.