Abducted Benue Seminarian Regains Freedom

Benue seminarian abducted has safely returned after escaping from his captors, bringing relief to the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and members of the Christian community.

The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo in Benue State confirmed the safe return of Kelvin Ochai, a seminarian who was abducted by gunmen at Asa III in Otukpo Local Government Area. The announcement was made in a statement issued on Saturday by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo.

According to the statement, the seminarian escaped from the custody of his abductors on the evening of Friday, 31st July, 2026, before making his way to Aliade in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State. He was later reunited with his family without suffering any harm.

The statement attributed his safe return to divine intervention and the prayers offered by Christians and well-wishers throughout the period of his captivity. It stated, “Through the prayers of the people of God, Kelvin escaped from the custody of his abductors on the evening of Friday, 31st July, 2026, and made his way to Aliade, Gwer East LGA of Benue State. He has since been safely reunited with his family and is unharmed.”

Reacting to the development, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed deep appreciation to priests, religious leaders, lay faithful and people of goodwill who stood by the diocese with prayers and support during the seminarian’s ordeal.

The successful escape of the Benue seminarian abducted has brought joy to the diocese and his loved ones after days of uncertainty. Church leaders described his safe return as a moment of thanksgiving and renewed hope. The case of the Benue seminarian abducted also highlights the continuing security concerns facing communities in parts of Benue State.

What more can communities and security agencies do to prevent abductions in vulnerable areas?