Suspected gunmen have attacked the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo Diocese in Benue State and abducted a seminarian, Kelvin Ochai.
OTUKPO, BENUE STATE — Suspected gunmen have attacked the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, and abducted a seminarian, Mr Kelvin Ochai, in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday at the bishop's residence in the Asa III area of Otukpo, further deepening concerns over insecurity in Benue South.
The attack comes amid renewed violence in parts of Benue State, where communities have witnessed killings, kidnappings and armed assaults in recent weeks.
Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Friday, the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo, said the seminarian was taken away by the attackers during the invasion.
According to the statement, Bishop Apochi expressed sadness over the incident and appealed to members of the church and the public to pray for the victim's safe release.
The statement read:
"Bishop Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, who is deeply saddened by this unfortunate development, has called on all Christ's faithful in the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and all people of goodwill to earnestly pray for the seminarian's quick and safe release."
The diocese also offered prayers for other Nigerians currently being held captive across the country.
The latest attack adds to growing security concerns in Benue South, particularly in Otukpo and surrounding communities, where residents have repeatedly complained about kidnappings and violent attacks.
Religious institutions have increasingly become targets of criminal groups in different parts of Nigeria, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures.
Community leaders and residents have urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted seminarian and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The attack on a religious institution highlights the widening security challenges facing communities in Benue State and other parts of the country.
Analysts warn that attacks on places of worship and religious leaders can deepen fear and undermine public confidence in security institutions.
Security agencies are expected to intensify investigations and launch rescue efforts aimed at securing the release of the abducted seminarian.
The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo has called on Christians and Nigerians to continue praying for all victims of kidnapping across the country.
Prime Brief Media will continue to monitor developments and provide verified updates.
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