By Ibekimi Oriamaja
Both Catholic priests, Rev. Fr. John Mark Cheitnum and Rev. Fr. Donatus Cleopas, have been kidnapped in Kaduna State’s Lere Local Government Area.
Chietnum is the leader of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kaduna State’s Jema’a Local Government Area.
The Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Kafancha, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Uchechukwu Okolo, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Saturday, stating that the priests were abducted by terrorists on Friday.
“We regret to inform you of the kidnapping of two of our priests, Rev. Frs. John Mark Cheitnum and Donatus Cleopas,” said the Chancellor.
“Two priests were abducted on July 15, 2022, around 5:45 p.m., while traveling to a different parish in Kaduna State’s Lere Local Government Area for a ceremony.”
“We request fervent prayers for their immediate and safe release, as well as a halt to law enforcement.”
“We will do everything in our power to ensure their safe and prompt release.”
“May the Crucified Jesus on the Cross hear our prayers and speed up the unconditional release of his priests and all other kidnapped persons,” he prayed.
