The Archdiocese of Kaduna has confirmed the abduction of a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Bobbo Paschal, following an attack on Kushe Gugdu community in Kagarko local government area of Kaduna State in the early hours of Monday.
Rev. Fr. Paschal, who is the Parish Priest of St. Stephen’s Parish, Kushe Gugdu, was whisked away from his residence when armed men invaded the community.
The Chancellor of the Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Christian Okewu Emmanuel, who confirmed the development in a statement on Monday, said that several other villagers were also abducted during the attack.
According to him, the brother of another priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Yero, was killed during the attack.
He described the incident as tragic and urged the faithful and all people of goodwill to join the Church in praying for the safe release of the abducted persons and for the repose of the dead.
“This is a difficult moment for the Archdiocese. We appeal for prayers for the safety and quick release of all those taken away, and for God’s comfort on the bereaved family,” he stated.
Meanwhile, all efforts to contact the Kaduna State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Mansir Hassan, for comments on the incident proved abortive as calls and messages placed to his phone number were not answered as of press time.
