Kidnapped Benue seminarian escapes from abductors - Church

The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo in Benue State, Nigeria, has announced the safe return of its seminarian, Kelvin Ochai, who was abducted on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

Ochai managed to escape from his abductors on the evening of Friday, July 31, and made his way to Aliade in the Gwer East Local Government Area. He has since been reunited with his family and is reported to be unharmed.

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Through the prayers of the people of God, Kelvin escaped from the custody of his abductors on the evening of Friday, 31st July, 2026, and made his way to Aliade, Gwer East LGA of Benue State. He has since been safely reunited with his family and is unharmed.

In a statement, the Chancellor of the Diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo, attributed the seminarian's escape to divine intervention and the fervent prayers of Christians and well-wishers. "Through the prayers of the people of God, Kelvin escaped from the custody of his abductors... He has since been safely reunited with his family and is unharmed," the statement read.

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while giving all glory to God, the Bishop sincerely appreciates all the priests, religious, lay faithful of the Diocese, and people of goodwill for their unwavering solidarity and fervent prayers, which contributed to the speedy and safe return of our brother.

Bishop Michael Ekwoyi Apochi of the Otukpo Diocese expressed profound gratitude to all who supported and prayed during Ochai's captivity. He also thanked Rev. Fr. Vitalis Ioryue, the parishioners of Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Aliade, and the Nigeria Police Force for their assistance to the seminarian after his escape.

The Diocese concluded by praying for the safe release of all individuals still held captive across Nigeria, seeking divine protection and the restoration of peace, justice, and security to the nation.

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As we continue to commend to God all those who remain in captivity across our nation, we fervently pray that the Lord will grant them safe rescue, protect His people from every evil, and restore lasting peace, justice, and security to our beloved country, Nigeria.