The Catholic Diocese of Zaria has confirmed the abduction of one of its priests, Reverend Father Emmanuel Ezema, from his residence at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Rumi, along Kano Road. The kidnapping took place around 11:30 pm on Tuesday night, sending shockwaves through the parish and the broader Catholic community in Kaduna State.

In an official statement released Wednesday and signed by the Diocesan Chancellor, Reverend Father Isek Augustine, the Diocese expressed deep regret over the incident and called for urgent prayers for the priest’s safe return.

According to the statement, the attackers gained access to the parish house without resistance before taking Father Ezema into captivity. The Diocese has appealed to all people of goodwill to pray for the swift and safe release of Father Ezema and others currently in the hands of their abductors. The Church also invoked the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for the priest’s safe return.

However, security agencies have been called upon to take immediate action to secure the release of the abducted clergyman. The incident highlights a troubling rise in the kidnapping of clergy in Nigeria, especially in the northern states.

The Diocese of Zaria has urged the Christian community and the public to remain calm while intensifying prayers for Father Ezema’s safe return.