The Nigerian Catholic community celebrates the return of yet another kidnapped priest. Father Oliver Buba was abducted on May 21 in the parish of Santa Rita, Adamawa state, Nigeria. His kidnappers held him for more than a week.

Stephen Dami Mamza, Bishop of Yola, announced the return of Father Buba. In a statement, Bishop Mamza also thanked the believers for their support during the search for the abducted priest.

“On behalf of the priests, religious and lay people of the diocese of Yola, I would like to say thanks and express my appreciation to all people of good will for their prayers and expressions of solidarity in these challenging and difficult times. May the Lord bless you and grant you peace.”

The captors of Father Buba released him in the early hours of May 30. He was freed a week after the previously kidnapped Nigerian priest, Father Basil Gbuzuo, was released. Now, both of the priests have safely returned. Their stories were a success, but the situation of kidnapping in Nigeria is far from solved. There are numerous people held hostage, and kidnappings, including the mass kidnapping and abduction of schoolchildren, are a common occurrence in Nigeria.

Source: Agenzia Fides

Photo: Catholic Diocese of Yola