In a continued wave of kidnappings in Nigeria, Reverend Father Thaddeus Tarhembe was abducted from his parish in Ibi Local Council of Taraba State in the early hours of Sunday, October 29.
The Bishop of Wukari, Msgr Mark Nzukwein, confirmed the abduction, stating that it occurred in the parish rectory.
Kidnapping for extortion has become a pervasive issue in Nigeria, affecting both ordinary citizens and church personnel. Incidents occur during street kidnappings and assaults, often taking place at night, with convents and parish houses being targeted.
Recently, a gang of Fulani herdsmen raided the Benedictine monastery of Eruku in Kwara State, where they abducted a novice, Godwin Eze, who was tragically killed. Two other postulants, Anthony Eze and Peter Olarewaj, were also briefly taken but later released.
In Taraba State, the police arrested 20 alleged members of a kidnapping gang at the end of September. This operation resulted in the recovery of ransom money paid by the families of kidnapping victims and the confiscation of weapons. Kidnappings remain a significant security concern in the region.
