Tragic Loss: Anglican Priest Killed Amidst Nigeria's Rising Abductions

An Anglican priest, Venerable Edwin Achi, was kidnapped and murdered in captivity in Nigeria. His abduction is part of a surge in kidnappings and violence in the region. Despite efforts to negotiate a ransom, his captors killed him, while his wife and daughter remain captive.

An Anglican priest has become the latest victim in a wave of kidnappings and violence sweeping through northwest Nigeria. Venerable Edwin Achi was taken with his family from their home in Kaduna and later killed, the Church of Nigeria's head reported on Friday.

The church disclosed that gunmen initially demanded 600 million naira for his release, later reducing their demand to 200 million. Despite negotiations, Achi was tragically murdered while his wife and daughter remain held by captors. Local police have yet to comment on the incident.

Amid these growing violent incidents, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has declared a national emergency, initiating the recruitment of thousands of police officers and halting foreign engagements. International leaders, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, have expressed concern over the escalating situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)