The Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, Kaduna State, has announced the abduction of Reverend Fathers John Cheitnum and Donatus Cleopas.

Mr Chietnum is the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Jema’a Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

In a statement, the chancellor of the diocese, Emmanuel Okolo, said the two priests were kidnapped on Friday at the rectory of Christ the King Catholic Church, Yadin Garu, in Lere Local Government Area.

“It is with great pain that we announce to you the kidnapping of two of our priests: Rev. Frs. John Cheitnum and Donatus Cleopas.

“It happened shortly after the two priests, who were on their way to a function at a different parish, arrived at the parish rectory of Christ the King Catholic Church, Yadin Garu in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State,” he said.

Mr Okolo solicited prayers for the quick release of the two priests while cautioning residents against taking laws into their hands, adding that the church would use every legitimate means to secure the safe release of the priests. 

(NAN)