A seminarian of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo in Benue State, Kelvin Ochai, has safely regained his freedom after escaping from the custody of gunmen who abducted him at Asa III in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state.

The Diocese confirmed the development in a statement issued on Saturday by its Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo.

The Diocese attributed the seminarian’s safe return to divine intervention and the prayers of Christians and other well-wishers who stood with the Church during the period of his captivity.

Escape to freedom

According to the statement, Ochai escaped from the custody of his abductors on the evening of Friday, July 31, 2026, before making his way to Aliade in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State.

He was subsequently reunited with his family without sustaining any injuries.

“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.

Diocese expresses gratitude

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

He said the overwhelming concern shown by members of the Church and the general public provided encouragement to the Diocese during the difficult period.

The Bishop also thanked everyone who joined in praying for the seminarian’s safe return, describing his escape as a testimony of God’s protection and mercy.

Renewed calls for security

The incident has once again drawn attention to the growing insecurity in parts of Benue State, where cases of kidnapping and violent attacks have remained a source of concern for residents and religious institutions.

Although Ochai regained his freedom by escaping from his captors, the incident underscores the persistent security challenges confronting communities in the state.

The Diocese did not disclose further details about the circumstances surrounding the abduction or the seminarian’s escape, while security authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the development.

The safe return of the seminarian has, however, been welcomed with relief by members of the Catholic community and residents, many of whom have continued to offer prayers of thanksgiving following the announcement.