The Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Ibrahim Amos, who was abducted from St. Gerald Quasi Parish in Kurmin Risga, Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on April 24, 2024, has been freed.
In a statement signed by its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Jacob Shanet, the Diocese of Kafanchan confirmed his release on Friday.
He said, “Fr. Amos was released unharmed, bringing relief to the Catholic community and his family after weeks of uncertainty and emotional distress.
“The outpouring of concern and solidarity from people of goodwill, both online and offline—including members of various faith communities, security agencies, local vigilantes, the Police, and the Department of State Services (DSS)—has been overwhelming.”
It added that these efforts demonstrated “that we are not alone in the struggle to respect and promote the dignity of human life.”
The Diocese expressed its gratitude to God and thanked all who offered prayers, support, and solidarity during the priest’s captivity.
“May the Blessed Virgin Mary, the mother of Priests, and all the angels intercede for those still in captivity and lead them back safely to their families and communities,” the statement concluded.
The kidnapping of Fr. Amos garnered a lot of attention and reignited calls for stronger security measures to fight Kaduna’s ongoing instability, especially in Southern Kaduna, where violence and kidnappings are still major issues.