Kukah’s parishioner freed hours after kidnap

Kukah's parishioner freed hours after kidnap

A parishioner of the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Sokoto State, Tony Udemezue, has regained his freedom hours after he was reportedly abducted by unknown gunmen.

Religion Nigeria reported that Udemezue was abducted by his assailants around 2am on Monday, July 25 in Tambuwal, the village of the sitting Governor of Sokoto State.

His abduction was confirmed by Fr Chris Omotosho, the Communications Director of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto led by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah.

“One of my parishioners in Tambuwal, Sokoto State – Tony Udemezue has just been kidnapped in his own house (home town of the executive governor of the State – Aminu Tambuwal).

“No police have responded in the last 1 hour (since 2 am) despite they were called by him before he was taken away. Pls, let us keep him & family in our prayers,” Kukah’s spokesman, Omotosho said.

However, Omotosho, on Tuesday told Religion Nigeria that Mr Udemezue was freed on Monday night and has since been reunited with his family.

“To the glory of God, our friend, brother & parishioner – Mr Tony Udemezue – who was kidnapped by gunmen in the early hours of today (Monday – 24/07/2022) in his house in Tambuwal, Sokoto State, has regained freedom from his abductors & he is reunited with his family.

“The family express deep appreciation to all friends & well-wisher for their prayers, encouragement & support. To God be the Glory,” Omotosho said.

However, Religion Nigeria can’t confirm if Mr Udemezue and his family or the church paid a ransom to secure his release from his abductors whose identities remain unknown.