Father Mikah Suleiman, the Parish Priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church in Damba, Gusau, Zamfara State, has been released by bandits after being kidnapped two weeks ago. The Catholic Diocese of Sokoto announced his release on Sunday, July 7, 2024.
“We are overjoyed to announce the safe release of Fr. Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped on 22/06/2024,” stated Pascal Salifu, the Director of Communications for the Diocese.
He expressed gratitude for the support and prayers during the ordeal.
“Our thanks also go to the authorities and all involved in securing Fr. Mikah’s release. He is currently receiving the necessary care and support,” Salifu added.
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Salifu encouraged continued prayers for Father Suleiman as he begins his recovery.
The Zamfara State Police Public Relations Officer, Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the abduction and stated, “We have deployed our tactical squad to go after the kidnappers with the aim of rescuing the victim unhurt.”
The acting Chancellor of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, Nuhu Iliya, had earlier called on the Christian community to pray for Father Suleiman’s “quick and safe release.”
Iliya also commended him to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Father Suleiman’s kidnapping is not an isolated incident. In early June 2024, bandits abducted Father Gabriel Ukeh, the presiding priest of St. Thomas Parish in Zaman Dabo Community, Zango Kataf Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
Father Ukeh was taken from his rectory early in the morning. The Vicar General (Pastoral), Emmanuel Kazah, disclosed this in a statement.