Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
In a development that has brought a mix of relief and sorrow to communities across Nigeria, the wife and daughter of the late Anglican priest Venerable Edwin Achi have regained their freedom after being held captive for approximately three months following their abduction in Kaduna State. The release comes against the backdrop of a brutal kidnapping that claimed the life of the clergyman and left the remaining family members in a prolonged ordeal that captured national attention.
The family was abducted on October 28, 2025, from their residence in the Nissi community of Chikun Local Government Area, in north-west Nigeria. Armed assailants stormed their home in a late-night attack, taking the priest, his wife Sarah Achi, and their daughter into captivity along with other victims.
While the kidnapping electrified social media and local news outlets, the priests’ church leaders and relatives appealed for calm and support, urging government and security agencies to intervene. The assailants initially demanded a ransom of ₦600 million, an exorbitant sum that placed immense strain on the family and supporters. Reports later indicated that the ransom was reduced to ₦200 million, but even this lower figure proved impossible for the family to raise.
Tragically, days into their captivity, the captors murdered Venerable Achi, a development that was later confirmed by the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna. Church authorities described his death as a devastating loss to the clergy and the congregation, noting his dedicated service and quiet devotion to his ministry. His passing prompted the cancellation of the church’s annual Stand Up for Jesus 2025 programme, which had been scheduled as a major event for the diocese.
The news of his death deepened the anguish felt by his family and the wider Christian community in Nigeria, with many expressing outrage over the rising trend of kidnappings targeting religious leaders, civil servants, students, and other citizens. Nigeria has seen a sharp escalation in violent abductions in recent years, particularly in the North-West and North-Central regions, where banditry and criminal gangs operate with increasing impunity.
Despite the grim circumstances, last night brought a measure of consolation for the Achi family and their supporters. Security sources and media reports confirmed that Sarah Achi and her daughter were released, ending their extended captivity. The precise circumstances of their release remain unclear, with no official statement yet from government security agencies or church representatives detailing whether it resulted from negotiations, ransom payment, or a targeted rescue effort.
The release has sparked a wave of reactions across Nigeria. Many have described the moment as “bittersweet,” celebrating the freedom of the surviving family members while mourning the loss of the priest who did not survive the ordeal. Social media platforms were awash with messages of relief that the mother and daughter were safe, even as commentators lamented the broader crisis of insecurity that allowed such an attack to unfold.
Religious and civic leaders have reiterated calls for more decisive action against kidnappers and bandits who exploit security weaknesses. The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other faith-based organisations have long urged the federal and state governments to ramp up protections for vulnerable communities, strengthen intelligence networks, and dismantle criminal syndicates that finance and perpetuate kidnappings.
Security analysts note that kidnappings for ransom have become a lucrative criminal enterprise in parts of Nigeria, especially where police and military presence is thin and local communities lack adequate protection. The targeting of clergy and religious figures has added a chilling dimension to the problem, sparking fears among clergy members and congregations about their safety.
For the Achi family, the path ahead will involve healing and rebuilding. After months of terror and uncertainty, Sarah Achi and her daughter must now grapple with the emotional aftermath of their captivity as well as the grief of losing a husband and father. Family members and church officials are expected to provide support as they return to civilian life and seek counselling and care.
The incident also shines a spotlight on the broader issue of insecurity in Nigeria. The federal government has repeatedly acknowledged the threat posed by banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings, with President Bola Tinubu declaring a nationwide state of emergency on security challenges in late 2025. Efforts have included increased recruitment of security personnel and deployment of task forces to troubled regions. However, persistent gaps in security coverage and the sophistication of criminal networks continue to pose formidable hurdles.
As Nigerians reflect on the ordeal faced by the Achi family, many have called for unity and resilience in the fight against insecurity. Religious leaders have urged congregants to pray for peace and for the safe return of others still held captive across the country. At the same time, civil society groups have renewed demands for transparent investigations, stronger law enforcement responses, and community-based security initiatives that can help prevent future tragedies.
The release of Sarah Achi and her daughter marks a rare moment of reprieve in a context often dominated by tales of prolonged captivity and tragic outcomes. Yet, it also underscores the pressing need for sustained and effective responses to the insecurity that afflicts many parts of Nigeria, affecting families, communities, and the nation’s social fabric.
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