BREAKING: Catholic Priest Freed After 2-Week Kidnapping in Zamfara

Father Mikah Suleiman, the Parish Priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church in Damba, Gusau, Zamfara State, has been released after being held captive by bandits for two weeks.

His release was confirmed on Sunday, July 7, 2024, in a statement by Pascal Salifu, the Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto.

“We are overjoyed to announce the safe release of Fr Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped on June 22, 2024,” the statement read. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to God for His protection and to everyone who offered prayers and support during this challenging time. Our thanks also go to the authorities and all involved in securing Fr Mikah’s release. He is currently receiving the necessary care and support.”

Salifu also asked for continued prayers for Father Suleiman as he begins his recovery.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the kidnapping on Saturday. “Yes, the incident happened early this morning. The Reverend Father was kidnapped from his residence. We were not informed immediately, but we have deployed our tactical squad to pursue the kidnappers with the aim of rescuing the victim unhurt.”

Nuhu Iliya, the acting Chancellor of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, had previously urged the Christian community to pray for Father Suleiman’s “quick and safe release,” and commended him to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Priests.

In related news, bandits also abducted Father Gabriel Ukeh, the presiding priest of St. Thomas Parish in Zaman Dabo Community, Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State, in early June 2024. Father Ukeh was taken from the rectory in the early hours of Sunday, as disclosed by Vicar General (Pastoral) Emmanuel Kazah in a press statement.