Again, suspected bandits reportedly kidnapped two Catholic priests, Reverend Fathers John Cheitnum and Donatus Cleopas, on their way to a function in the Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

The Chancellor, Catholic Diocese of Kafancha, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Okolo, said in a statement released to newsmen in Kaduna that the attack took place on Friday evening.

This is coming less than a week when the remains of the slain Reverend Father Vitus Borogo, also a Catholic priest, killed by terrorists on his farm, were buried in the state capital on Thursday.

Borogo was killed on June 25, 2022, while his brother CY Borogo was kidnapped by his abductors.

The development sparked protests among priests in the Kaduna Archdiocese, forcing them to carry placard in venting their anger over the deteriorating spate of insecurity across the country, especially in the state (Kaduna).

The Chancellor said, “It is with great pain that we announce to you the kidnapping of two of our Priests; Rev. Frs. John Mark Cheitnum and Donatus Cleopas.

“The sad event of their abduction occurred around 5:45pm of July 15, 2022, shortly after the two priests, who were on their way to a function at a different parish in the Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

“We solicit for an intense prayer for their quick and safe release, we equally wish to call on all and sundry to refrain from taking the laws into their hands.

“We will use every legitimate means to ensure their quick and safe release.

“May Jesus crucified on the Cross listen to our prayers and hasten the unconditional release of His Priests and all other kidnapped persons.”