Relief and grief trail release as wife and daughter survives captivity, months after priest was killed by abductors
The wife and daughter, family members of the late Venerable Edwin Achi, were abducted alongside the cleric during a late-night attack on their residence in Kaduna State. While the priest was later confirmed dead in captivity, his wife and daughter remained in the kidnappers’ den for several weeks, sparking widespread concern, prayers, and calls for their release.
Their freedom was confirmed on Thursday, with reports indicating that the two were released after prolonged negotiations. Details surrounding the terms of their release, including whether a ransom was paid, have not been officially disclosed by authorities.
The abduction and eventual killing of the Anglican priest had earlier drawn condemnation from religious groups, civil society organisations, and concerned Nigerians, who described the incident as a tragic reminder of the worsening insecurity in parts of the country. Clerics and residents in affected communities have repeatedly called on the government to strengthen security measures and protect vulnerable citizens from recurring kidnappings.
News of the release of the priest’s wife and daughter has been greeted with relief across social media, though many Nigerians describe the development as painful, given that the head of the family did not survive the ordeal. Messages of sympathy and support have continued to pour in for the family, with many urging authorities to ensure justice and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The incident adds to the growing list of kidnapping cases in northern Nigeria and renews national debate on insecurity, ransom-driven abductions, and the safety of religious leaders and their families.
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