Two Catholic priests, Rev. Fr. Donatus Cleophas Sulaiman and Rev. Fr. John Mark Chietnum, have been kidnapped in Kaduna State on Friday.
In a statement issued by the Communications Director, Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Fr Chris Omotosho, the kidnapping took place at the parish rectory of Christ the King Catholic Church, Yalding Garu, Lee L. G. A., Kaduna State about 5:15pm.
Omotosho said that Sulaiman is the parish priest of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Shagari Low-cost, Katsina State, Catholic Diocese of Kafanchan, working in the Diocese of Sokoto.
The statement reads: “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 (Gure), arrived at the parish rectory of Christ the King Catholic Church, Yadin Garu, in Lere Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
“As 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. With prayerful best wishes, I remain; Faithfuily Yours in Christ Jesus,” the statement read.
