KOGI CATHOLIC PRIEST, TWO OTHER PARISHIONERS FREED AFTER WEEK-LONG KIDNAPPING. (PHOTO).

 Kogi Catholic Priest, Two Other Parishioners Freed After Week-Long Kidnapping

A Catholic priest serving at St.Paul Parish in Agaliga-Efabo, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, 

Rev. Fr. Wilfred Ezeamba, who was kidnapped by unknown assailants on Friday, September 12, 2025, had regained his freedom.

The kogi State Police Command confirmed the safe release of Rev. Fr. Ezeamba, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, after enduring seven days in captivity. 

After Rev. Fr. Ezeamba regained his freedom from his abductors, parishioners and community members gathered at the St Paul Parish to celebrate his safe return, offering prayers of gratitude and holding a special thanksgiving service saying, "We are overjoyed to have our priest back with us,” said Mrs. Grace Idoko, a local parishioner. 

“His abduction left us in fear, but God has answered our prayers.”

A statement by the Catholic Diocese of Idah, under which St. Paul Parish operates, expressed gratitude to God and security agencies for Rev. Fr. Ezeamba’s safe return. The statement read in part, "We thank God Almighty for his mercy and the security agencies for their efforts. We also appreciate the prayers and support of the faithful during this trying time."

The diocese urged the government to intensify efforts to address insecurity in Kogi State to prevent future occurrences. 

Rev. Fr. Ezeamba, who appeared physically unharmed but visibly shaken, is currently receiving medical attention and counseling to help him recover from the traumatic experience.

Rev. Fr. Ezeamba was kidnapped  along the Imane-Ogugu road while he was returning from a burial ceremony in the Imane community, also in Olamaboro Local Government.

According to police authorities in kogi state, two suspects linked to the kidnapping were apprehended prior to his release following a swift response from security operatives, who launched a manhunt in collaboration with local vigilante groups to secure freedom for the priest.

The police assured the people of kogi state that investigations are ongoing to bring all perpetrators to justice and to curb the rising tide of kidnappings in the region.