Abducted Kaduna priest regains freedom after 24 hours in captivity

Joseph Shekari, the abducted catholic priest of St.Monica Catholic Church, Ikulu Parish in Kauru LGA of Kaduna state, has been released.

Shekari was abducted on Sunday night when gunmen invaded his residence and killed his cook before taking him away.

Emmanuel Okolo, chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, confirmed Shekari’s release.

Okolo said the priest was freed around 10:30pm on Monday.

The church prayed for the repose of the soul of the cook killed during the attack and the release of all those in captivity.

“With hearts filled with joy, we raise our voices in a symphony of praises as we announce the return of our brother, Rev. Fr. Joseph Danjuma Shekari, who was abducted by armed persons from the Rectory at St. Monica’s Catholic Church, Ikulu Parish in Kauru Local Government Area, Kaduna State, on Sunday 6th February, 2022,” a statement by Okolo reads.

“Fr. Shekari was released around 10.30pm on Monday, 7th February, 2022.

“As we pray for the repose of the soul of his cook who was killed during the attack, 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 for the quick release of Fr. Shekari as well as Mass for the dead for the departed cook of Fr. Shekari.

“May Our Lady of Gudalupe intercede for us and all those that are still in captivity.”