By CISA
IBADAN, MAY 2, 2023 (CISA) – Three Catholic priests have been kidnapped in separate incidents in Nigeria in April.
According to reports seen by CISA, Fr Michael Asomugha, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe and the assistant parish priest of St. Paul’s Parish Osu, Isiala Mbano L.G.A, Imo State, was on April 15 kidnapped along Oriagu -Obowo road on his way back to the parish from a diocesan diaconate celebration.
However, Fr Asomugha was released on April 29 and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital in the country.
Consequently, in a press release dated April 30 by Fr Okereke Kingsely Kizito, the Delegate Superior of the Secular Institute of the Schoenstatt Fathers- Nigeria region, the institute announced the kidnapping of Fr Chochos Kunav and his friend Fr Raphael Ogigba, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Warri.
The Schoenstatt Fathers say Fr Kunav, who lives and works in Ibadan had travelled to visit his friend Fr Raphael at his parish of St. Francis Agbara Otor, Ughelli North, Delta State.
“Unfortunately, after a short visit to the priest in a nearby parish both Fr Chochos Kunav and Fr Raphael Ogigba were kidnapped last night on their way back to the Parish of Fr Raphael. The incident occurred on the road, in front of Ibru University Agbara Otor,” said Fr Okereke.
The congregation appeals for intense prayers and their quick and safe release.
