BREAKING: Abducted Otukpo Seminarian escapes from kidnappers’ den

There was relief in Benue State on Saturday as a seminarian abducted by gunmen in Otukpo Local Government Area regained his freedom after escaping from his captors.

The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo confirmed the safe return of Kelvin Ochai, who was kidnapped at Asa III in Otukpo LGA.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo.

According to the statement, the seminarian escaped from the kidnappers’ den on Friday evening and found his way to Aliade in Gwer East Local Government Area, where he was reunited with his family unharmed.

“Through the prayers of the people of God, Kelvin escaped from the custody of his abductors on the evening of Friday, 31st July, 2026, and made his way to Aliade, Gwer East LGA of Benue State. He has since been safely reunited with his family and is unharmed,” the statement read.

The diocese attributed his escape to divine intervention and the prayers of Christians and well-wishers who had continued to intercede for his safe release.

The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, Most Rev. Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, expressed gratitude to priests, religious, lay faithful and people of goodwill for their unwavering support and prayers throughout the seminarian’s captivity.

The bishop also thanked God for preserving Ochai’s life and urged the faithful to continue praying for lasting peace and an end to insecurity across Benue State and Nigeria.