By Emmanuel Onoja, Makurdi

Suspected bandits have abducted a Catholic seminarian, Mr. Kelvin Ochai, following an attack on the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo in Benue State.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when armed assailants reportedly stormed the Bishop’s residence located in the Asa III area of Otukpo Local Government Area, causing panic within the community.

The abduction was confirmed in a statement issued on Friday by the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Rev. Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo.

According to the statement, the attackers invaded the premises and abducted the seminarian during the operation. Details surrounding the circumstances of the attack were not immediately disclosed.

The Diocese expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a painful and disturbing development that has left members of the Catholic community saddened.

The statement noted that the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, was deeply distressed by the abduction and has called on the faithful and well-wishers to intensify prayers for the victim’s safe return.

Bishop Apochi urged all members of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, as well as people of goodwill across the country, to unite in prayer for the seminarian and others currently being held captive by criminal groups.

“We commit our brother and all those in kidnappers’ dens across the country to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for their speedy and safe release from the hands of their abductors,” the statement said.

The Diocese also offered prayers for the protection of communities affected by insecurity and for an end to the growing menace of kidnapping and violent attacks in different parts of Nigeria.

The latest abduction has heightened concerns over the security situation in Benue State, where residents have continued to grapple with incidents of armed attacks, kidnappings and other violent crimes.

As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had not issued an official statement on the incident, while efforts were reportedly ongoing to secure the release of the abducted seminarian and apprehend those responsible for the attack.

The incident adds to the growing list of attacks on religious institutions and personnel across the country, further underscoring the persistent security challenges facing many communities.