Relief swept through the Catholic community in Olamaboro Local Government Area as Rev. Fr. Wilfred Ezeamba, parish priest of St. Paul Parish, Agaliga-Efabo, regained freedom on Thursday, September 18, 2025, after spending seven harrowing days in captivity.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed his safe release, noting that the clergyman was abducted on September 12 along the Imane-Ogugu road, while returning from a burial ceremony in Imane community. His abduction sparked widespread fear and prayers across the parish and surrounding communities.
Parishioners welcomed Fr. Ezeamba back with heartfelt celebrations at St. Paul Parish, where a special thanksgiving service was held in his honour. “We are overjoyed to have our priest back with us,” said Mrs. Grace Idoko, a member of the parish. “His abduction left us in fear, but God has answered our prayers.”
In a statement, the Catholic Diocese of Idah expressed gratitude to God, security agencies, and the faithful whose prayers and support helped secure the priest’s release. The diocese, however, urged both federal and state governments to intensify security efforts in Kogi State, stressing that no community should have to live under constant fear of kidnapping.
Police authorities disclosed that two suspects connected to the abduction were apprehended before the priest’s release. A joint operation involving security operatives and local vigilante groups played a crucial role in tracking the criminals and mounting pressure that led to his freedom.
Although Fr. Ezeamba appeared physically unharmed, he was visibly shaken. He is currently receiving medical care and counseling to recover from the traumatic ordeal.
The police assured residents that investigations remain ongoing, with a pledge to bring all perpetrators to justice while working to curb the rising wave of kidnappings in the state.
The case underscores the urgent need for stronger community-security collaboration and decisive government intervention to restore peace across vulnerable areas in Kogi State.
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