Kidnapping of Methodist Prelate, others: CAN in shock, prays for release of victims
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Abia State chapter, has condemned the kidnapping of the Prelate of Methodist Church of Nigeria (MCN), His Eminence, Rev. Samuel Kanu Uche, and others who were travelling with him in Umunneochi local government area of Abia State.
The Chairman of CAN, Abia State chapter, Apostle Emmanuel Agomoh, who spoke with our Correspondent in a telephone interview, said the body was shocked by the development and called for the quick release of the victims.
Gunmen had, on Sunday, May 29, 2022, kidnapped the MCN Prelate, together with the Methodist Bishop of Owerri Rt. Rev. Dennis Mark and the Prelate’s Chaplain who were travelling with him.
Reports said they were abducted along the Ihube – Leru road axis of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.
They were said to have gone for a church programme in Umunneochi when they were abducted.
Agomoh said it was unfortunate that the kidnappers could lay their hands on clergymen which portrayed them (kidnappers) as people who have no fear of God in them.
He urged them to release the men of God in their custody quickly and unharmed.
Agomoh said that Christians in the state were praying for the freedom of those abducted.
“I have been officially informed this morning about the abduction of the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria and those travelling with him.
“We are praying to God. You know we cannot go the kidnappers den. I know he (Prelate) must come out. I pray that God will intervene, he will come back. He must come back safely,” Agomoh told our Correspondent Monday morning.
Also when contacted through the telephone, the Methodist Archbishop of Umuahia Archdiocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Dr Raphael Opoko, said security agencies, as well as members of the Church have been notified of the unfortunate incident and that serious efforts were being made to ensure the safe release of the kidnapped victims.
Abia State Police Public Relations Officer, Geoffrey Ogbonna, while confirming the abduction of the Prelate and some members of his entourage, described the incident as unfortunate.
“The incident is quite unfortunate and the Abia State Police Command has put in place efforts to ensure that he is rescued, alongside others and where possible, to arrest the people behind this dastardly act.
“Meanwhile, we are calling on members of the public to give us credible information that will help us to actualise this mission” Ogbonna said.
