Catholic Priest in Nigeria Kidnapped on February 12 Released Unharmed

Fr. Livinus Maurice, a Catholic priest kidnapped on February 12 in Nigeria, has been released alongside two others after intervention by security forces. The Diocese of Port Harcourt had advocated for his release. Meanwhile, another priest remains in captivity, highlighting the ongoing threat of kidnapping in the region.

On February 12, Fr. Livinus Maurice, a Catholic priest from St. Patrick’s Church in Isokpo, Nigeria, was abducted alongside two others. The incident occurred on a route from Elele to Isiokpo as he returned from a hospital visit. In response, the Diocese of Port Harcourt officially urged for the priest’s unconditional release.

After several days of heightened pressure on the kidnappers, Fr. Livinus and the other victims were released on February 16. The spokesperson for the state police reported that their release resulted from a coordinated effort involving police, military personnel from the Isiokpo Joint Task Force, and local security forces. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the kidnappers.

Concurrently, another priest, Fr. Cornellus Manzak Damulak, remains abducted since February 6 from his residence in the Bwari Area Council of Abuja. His case highlights the continued risks faced by religious leaders in Nigeria amid rising kidnappings for ransom.

The recent release of Fr. Livinus Maurice underscores the risks faced by religious figures in Nigeria, particularly in regions afflicted by violence. While prompt and effective intervention led to his safety, the ongoing abduction of Fr. Cornellus Manzak Damulak reflects persistent insecurity. The need for comprehensive measures to safeguard religious leaders is fundamental to mitigating such threats in the future.

Original Source: www.fides.org