Since the Boko Haram insurgency in 2010, the Christian population in Nigeria has experienced increasing religious persecution.
Newsroom (27/07/2023 09:33, Gaudium Press) A Catholic priest and three other people, who had been kidnapped while returning from a pastoral on July 10, were released from captivity unharmed two days after the crime.
A joy that God has answered our prayers
According to the Chancellor of Abakaliki Diocese, Father Uzoma Opoke, in a press statement, a group of unidentified gunmen kidnapped Father Joseph Azubuike of Abakaliki Diocese and three other faithful in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.
The Diocesan Chancellor celebrated this release by stressing that it was “a joy that God has answered our prayers and granted the unconditional release of His servant in such a remarkable manner”.
Police forces engaged in arresting the kidnappers
Father Azubuike, who is the parish priest of St. Charles in the Isu community, expressed gratitude to the Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, and the security agencies for their untiring efforts to secure his release.
A police spokesman assured that the priest and the other abductees had undergone medical examinations which confirmed that they were in good health. He also assured that intensive efforts are underway to apprehend the perpetrators.
Growing persecution against Christians in Nigeria
Since the Boko Haram insurgency in 2010, the Christian population in Nigeria has experienced increasing religious persecution. Fulani militants operate in the central and southern parts of the country, while the insurgency and Islamic State’s West Africa Province operate predominantly in the northeast.
As of last year, Nigeria remains the country with the highest number of Christians killed, assaulted, or abused. According to the Open Doors 2023 World Watch List, the African nation also ranks second among countries with the most displaced Christians and churches attacked. (EPC)
Compiled by Dominic Josep
