Nigeria: Second Catholic priest kidnapped in just eight days

The Diocese of Yola in Nigeria has “sadly” announced the kidnapping of Fr. Oliver Buba in the early hours of Tuesday, May 21, and is calling for his “quick and safe release.”

The priest has become the fifth priest kidnapped so far in 2024.

In a statement on Tuesday, May 21, shared with ACI Africa—the African agency of the ACI Group—the local bishop, Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza, reported that the incident occurred “around 1:00 am in the rectory of the Father.” , at St. Rita Catholic Church, Adamawa State, northeastern Nigeria.

In the statement addressed to the clergy, religious men and women under his pastoral care, the prelate urged them to “pray fervently” for the safety of Father Oliver.

“We entrust our brother, Father Oliver Buba, to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of priests, for his prompt liberation from the hands of his kidnappers,” he said.

Meanwhile, last week, the Archdiocese of Onitsha also called for prayers for the safe release of one of its priests, Fr. Basil Gbuzuo, who was kidnapped on May 15 in Anambra State, south-central Nigeria.

In a May 16 statement shared with ACI Africa, archdiocesan chancellor Fr. Prudentius Aroh lamented that to date “the kidnappers have not established any contact with anyone.” Additionally, he asked for prayers for his early and safe release.

Nigeria has been grappling with a rise in violence orchestrated by gangs, whose members carry out indiscriminate attacks, kidnappings for ransom and, in some cases, murder.

Since 2009, the insurgency of Boko Haram, a terrorist group that aims to turn Africa’s most populous country into an Islamic nation, has been a major challenge in the country.

Translated and adapted by the ACI Prensa team. Originally published inICA Africa.