Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache, the priest responsible for St Margaret’s Parish in Ajegbe‑Awume, Ohimini Local Government Area of **[Benue State](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benue_State)**, was taken hostage by unknown gunmen on Tuesday, 13 October 2026 while travelling back from Otukpo on the Otobi Amejo‑Ajegbe Road. The abduction was confirmed in a statement released on Thursday by the **[Catholic Diocese of Otukpo](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diocese_of_Otukpo)** and signed by its Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo.
**When did the kidnapping happen?**
The statement specifies that the priest was seized on the afternoon of 13 October 2026. Police Public Relations Officer DSP Peter Aondongu verified the incident, noting that rescue operations are ongoing but the priest has not yet been freed.
**What has the Church said?**
Bishop **[Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Ekwoyi_Apochi)** expressed deep sorrow over the incident, urging Christians and all people of goodwill to pray for the priest’s swift and safe release. He said, "We are united in heart and mind, commending our brother Fr John and all those held by kidnappers to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for their speedy liberation."
**Why is this significant?**
The Diocese highlighted that this is the second occasion a priest from St Margaret’s Parish has been kidnapped, underscoring a growing security concern for clergy in the region. The statement also called for prayers for other kidnapping victims across the country, hoping for their rapid and safe return.
**What are the authorities doing?**
DSP Aondongu confirmed that security teams are actively pursuing the kidnappers and working to rescue the priest, though no breakthrough has been reported at the time of the statement.