Reverend Father Gabriel Ukeh, the parish priest of Saint Thomas Catholic Church in Zaman Dabo community, Zango Kataf Local Government Area, was kidnapped by bandits in the early hours of Sunday, June 8, 2024.
In a statement, Reverend Father Emmanuel Kazah, Vicar General of the Kafanchan Catholic Diocese, confirmed the abduction and called for prayers for Father Ukeh’s immediate and safe return. He also condemned the recurring kidnappings in the region, urging the government to enhance security measures, especially with the upcoming Sallah celebrations.
Father Kazah emphasized the importance of not resorting to vigilante justice, affirming that the Church is collaborating with security forces to secure Father Ukeh’s release. He invoked the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, appealing for divine assistance in ensuring the safe return of the priest and other kidnapped individuals.
