Priest, Seminarian Released after “traumatizing experience” with Kidnappers in Nigeria

“When this happened, we asked for your moral support and prayers. Their release is a confirmation of your fervent prayers and support. That is why I come back to you all in appreciation for being there for us during this dark, difficult and trying moment,” Fr. Pam said.

The Diocese of Minna had, in a statement, sent out a prayer appeal for the safe release of Fr. Paul and Seminarian Melchior who were stationed at St Luke's Catholic Church Gyedna in Niger State.

In the August 3 statement that was shared with ACI Africa, Bishop Martin Igwe Uzoukwu provided details about the abductions, saying that the two had been “kidnapped by bandits in the early hours.”

“We pray the Lord hears our prayers and brings them back in peace,” the Nigerian Catholic Bishop said in the statement.

In the August 23 statement, Fr. Pam expresses gratitude to those who offered prayers for the release of the Malian Priest and Tanzanian Seminarian, saying, “I thank you all, from far and near, for your involvement in their liberation.”

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He thanks the Diocese of Minna that he says had provided the Missionary of Africa with the right advice, strategies and logistics on how to go about the whole process of securing the release of Fr. Paul and Seminarian Melchior.

The Provincial Superior of White Fathers in Ghana and Nigeria goes on to pray for the conversion of kidnappers in Nigeria, saying, “We pray for the conversion of those who continue to think that the easiest way to make money is by hurting others.”

“May we continue to be givers of life wherever we are and in whatever we do so that those to whom we are sent may have life in abundance,” he says.

Agnes Aineah is a Kenyan journalist with a background in digital and newspaper reporting. She holds a Master of Arts in Digital Journalism from the Aga Khan University, Graduate School of Media and Communications and a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communications from Kenya's Moi University. Agnes currently serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.