Kaduna Catholic priest released hours after abduction

The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, Kaduna State, has confirmed the release of Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Silas who was abducted by unknown gunmen in the early hours of Monday, July 4, has regained his freedom.
Kaduna State

The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, Kaduna State, has confirmed the release of Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Silas who was abducted by unknown gunmen in the early hours of Monday, July 4, has regained his freedom.

The clergyman’s release was confirmed in a statement released on Tuesday morning and signed by Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Uchechukwu Okolo, the Chancellor, Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan.

Fr. Silas was said to have been released around 9 pm on Monday, although this publication can’t confirm if there was a payment of ransom to secure his release.

The diocese has ordered all priests to hold a mass of thanksgiving on Tuesday to celebrate the release of the abducted cleric.

“With hearts filled with joy, we raise our voices in a symphony of praises as we announce the return of our brother, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Silas, who was abducted by armed persons from the Rectory at St. Charles Catholic Church, Zarnbina in Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, at the early hours of today, 04th July, 2022. Barely 24 hours after his abduction, Fr. Emmanuel Silas was released around 9.00pm today, 4” July, 2022.

“We want to thank all those who have offered prayers and entreaties for the quick release of our Priest and others who are still in the dens of their kidnappers. We pray God to hasten the release of those who are still in the hands of their captors.

“All our Priests are directed to kindly celebrate Mass of Thanksgiving to God tomorrow, 5th July 2022 for the quick release of Fr. Emmanuel Silas,” the statement read.