Church minister Fr. Christian Ike and Catechist Mazi Ogbonnaya Aneke were kidnapped by armed gunmen on June 16 after returning from Holy Mass in an outstation of the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia, Ajalli, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria.

Both of the abducted were released on July 13 after almost a month in captivity. Fr. Lawrence Nwankwo, Chancellor of the Nigerian Diocese, released a statement, thanking all the support and prayers.

“We thank you for your prayers, calls, suggestions, and support during this difficult time. May we not relent in our prayers for the healing of Rev. Fr. Christian, Mazi Ogbonnaya, and many other victims, from the trauma of their harrowing experiences.”

He also called for further prayers and support for the other priests and religious who are currently held captive, as well as for the overall security in the region. In Nigeria, kidnapping, murder, and attacks against Christians are major problems. In many cases, the outcome of these violent acts can be fatal.

Source: ACI Africa