An Anglican priest who was kidnapped in northwest Nigeria has been killed after spending nearly a month in captivity, the head of the Church of Nigeria has confirmed. The incident adds to growing fears over the rising wave of abductions and violence across the country.
Archbishop Henry Ndakuba announced that Venerable Edwin Achi, who was abducted on October 28 along with his wife and daughter in Kaduna State, was murdered by his captors despite ongoing negotiations for his release.
“With deep sorrow, we announce the tragic death of our beloved priest, who was brutally murdered after enduring a month-long abduction,” Ndakuba said in a statement on Friday.
Ransom Demand Reduced but Hostage Killed
According to church officials, Achi’s abductors initially demanded 600 million naira (about $416,000). They later reduced the amount to 200 million naira, but the priest was still killed. His wife and daughter remain in captivity, and their condition is unknown.
Police in Kaduna have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Kidnapping Crisis in Northern Nigeria
Nigeria has experienced a sharp increase in mass abductions, especially in the northern states.
Recent incidents include:
25 schoolgirls kidnapped in Kebbi State on November 17
More than 300 students and teachers taken from a Catholic school in Niger State just days later
The continued attacks have forced several states to temporarily close schools to protect students and staff.
Government Declares a National Emergency
President Bola Tinubu described the situation as a “national emergency” and announced urgent measures, including:
Recruitment of 50,000 new police officers
Suspension of all foreign trips by government officials to focus on security
He vowed to intensify efforts to dismantle the criminal networks behind the kidnappings.
International Outrage Growing
The violence has drawn global attention. U.S. President Donald Trump recently called the situation in Nigeria “a disgrace,” warning that Washington could withhold aid or take tough action if attacks on Christian communities continue.
Church Calls for Action
Archbishop Ndakuba urged Nigerian authorities to identify and arrest the masterminds financing the kidnappers. He appealed for the immediate release of Achi’s wife and daughter.
“We call on the government and security agencies to expose the sponsors and enablers of this wave of terror,” he said.
Kidnapping for ransom remains one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing criminal enterprises, with communities across the north living in fear despite government promises of improved security.
