Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Abuja (Agenzia Fides) - The two Catholic priests kidnapped in southern Nigeria on the evening of April 30 have been released (see Fides, 2/5/2023).
Chochos Kunav, a member of the congregation of the Secular Institute of the Schoenstatt Fathers, and Father Ralph Ogigba, of the clergy of the diocese of Warri, parish priest of St. Francis Church in Agbara Otor, Ughelli North, Delta State, regained their freedom yesterday afternoon, May 4, after spending five nights in the hands of their kidnappers. "They were released yesterday, they are in good health, but were hospitalized for examination. We thank all those who prayed for the prompt release of the two priests", they confirmed from the diocese of Warri in a phone call to Fides.
According to the local press, a sum of money was demanded as a ransom for the release of the two priests. But for several years now, the Nigerian Bishops' Conference has formally announced that no ransom will be paid for the release of kidnapped priests and religious. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 5/5/2023)
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