The kidnapping of Father Benson Bulus Luka is the latest in a sad series against members of the Nigerian clergy.

Nigeria – Kaduna (09/15/2021 10:01, Gaudium Press) Last Monday night, September 13, Father Benson Bulus Luka was kidnapped while at his parish residence in the Diocese of Kafanchan, Nigeria.

The chancellor of the diocese, Father Emmanuel Uchechukwu, urged the faithful to pray for the priest’s release and to refrain from any private initiative seeking justice. “We will use all legitimate means to secure his safe and speedy release,” he said.

Armed men

Witnesses report that the priest’s kidnapping was carried out by armed men who stormed the parish house, while other individuals attacked the village of Apiye Jim, killing at least 11 people.

“May Jesus crucified on the cross, hear our prayers and hasten the unconditional release of his priest and all the other kidnapped people,” stated the chancellor of the Diocese of Kafanchan.

The climate of insecurity and violence is present in Nigeria since 2009, when Boko Haram started a series of terrorist attacks targeting religious and political groups.

Series of kidnappings

The kidnapping of Father Benson Bulus Luka is the latest of a sad series. In April, armed men kidnapped Father Izu Marcel Onyeocha, a member of the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Claretians). He was later released.

In May, the St. Vincent Ferrer Malunfashi Catholic parish in the Diocese of Sokoto was attacked, and two priests were kidnapped. One of them, Father Alphonsus Bello, was murdered. The other priest, Father Joe Keke, was released.

In July, another priest was the victim of kidnappers: Father Elijah Juma Wada, who served the Diocese of Maiduguri. He was kidnapped but managed to escape alive after spending nine days in the hands of the abductors. (EPC)

Compiled by Gustavo Kralj