Priests Kidnapped in Nigeria: A Grim Reality of Rising Insecurity
ABUJA — The Catholic Church in Nigeria continues to grapple with a wave of kidnappings targeting its priests, seminarians, and religious personnel. Over the past decade, 145 priests have been abducted across the country, with 11 killed and four still missing, according to a report published by Agenzia Fides on March 12, 2025. The alarming trend underscores the growing insecurity and persecution of Christians in Nigeria.
The Latest Incidents: Tragedy Strikes in Edo and Kaduna
- Seminarian Brutally Murdered in Edo State
On March 3, 2025, gunmen stormed St. Peter’s Parish in Iviukhua-Agenebode, Edo State, kidnapping Rev. Fr. Philip Ekweli and 21-year-old seminarian Andrew Peter. Despite efforts by local vigilantes to repel the attackers, the seminarian was gruesomely murdered while Fr. Ekweli was held captive for ten days before being released on March 13.
“This senseless act highlights the deteriorating security situation,” said Bishop Gabriel Dunia of Auchi Diocese. - Priest Killed on Ash Wednesday in Kaduna
In another tragic incident, Fr. Sylvester Okechukwu of Kafanchan Diocese was kidnapped on March 4 and found dead the following day. His murder adds to the seven priests abducted since January 2025, with Kaduna remaining one of the most dangerous regions for clergy.
High-Risk Regions for Clergy
The report identifies three provinces as hotspots for priest abductions:
- Owerri (47 kidnappings): The highest number of cases, primarily driven by ransom demands.
- Onitsha (30 kidnappings): One priest killed; abductions here are also largely ransom-motivated.
- Kaduna (24 kidnappings): Seven priests killed, reflecting heightened aggression and insurgent activity.
Kaduna stands out as the deadliest province for clergy, with kidnappers often showing less interest in ransom negotiations and more inclination toward violence.
Broader Context: Kidnapping as a National Crisis
Kidnapping has become a booming industry in Nigeria over the past decade:
- Between July 2022 and June 2023 alone, over 3,620 people were abducted across the country.
- Ransom payments during this period totaled approximately ₦5 billion ($3.88 million).
- Initially concentrated in oil-rich regions like the Niger Delta, kidnapping has now spread nationwide due to worsening economic conditions.
Religious leaders have increasingly become targets due to their perceived influence and wealth.
Government Criticized for Inaction
The Catholic Church has called on Nigerian authorities to take decisive action against kidnappers:
- Bishop Dunia criticized local police for their slow response during recent abductions.
- The government has been urged to bolster security measures in high-risk areas like Edo North and Kaduna.
“The government must prioritize security to prevent further loss of innocent lives,” said Fr. Peter Egielewa of Auchi Diocese.
Impact on Communities
The repeated targeting of clergy has devastated local communities:
- Churches are forced to increase security measures, diverting resources from pastoral work.
- Fear among parishioners is growing as places of worship are no longer seen as safe havens.
Conclusion
The rising wave of priest kidnappings highlights Nigeria’s deepening security crisis. As religious leaders continue to face threats, urgent action is needed from both government authorities and local communities to address this alarming trend and restore peace.
