Nigerian priest John Inalegwu Otache freed after 5 days

Father John Inalegwu Otache, the parish priest of St. Margaret’s Church in Ajegbe-Awume, was freed on the evening of October 18 after five days in captivity. Security forces rescued him along with five other people following his abduction on October 13 along the Otobi Amejo–Ajegbe road in Benue State, Nigeria.

Benue State police authorities reported that the rescue operation involved security personnel and potentially local vigilante groups. Deputy Superintendent Aondogu Orchia stated that the rescued victims were taken to Otukpo University Teaching Hospital for medical examinations. While some reports indicate eight victims were rescued and two suspects were arrested, police statements specifically confirmed the release of Father Otache and five others.

The Diocese of Otukpo welcomed the priest's return. Chancellor Joseph Itodo stated that Bishop Michael Ekwoyi Apochi expressed gratitude to the priests, religious, and lay faithful for the prayers and solidarity that supported the priest's safe return. Itodo also requested continued prayers for other people held captive by criminal gangs throughout the country.