Catholic priest kidnapped in Nigeria

By Linda Bordoni

Fr. John Bako Shekwolo, Parish Priest of Saint Teresa of Ankuwa, in the State of Kaduna, was abducted on Monday by unknown persons who broke into his home.

The Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Kaduna confirmed the kidnapping and asked for prayers for the quick release of Fr Shekwolo.

The Archdiocese appeals to “the consciences of those who abducted him to kindly release him unharmed.”

Local police authorities are reportedly conducting investigations into the kidnapping that has been condemned, in a statement, by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), which brings together the various Christian confessions in the country.

The statement, signed by the President of CAN, noted that “kidnapping in Kaduna State has become a big business”.

Government failure

“It is sad”, the statement continues, “that Kaduna State has become the center of kidnapping with the government doing almost nothing to stop it. This shows there is governance failure, as far as security of lives and property is concerned. Government and security agencies must wake up to their responsibilities of protecting lives and property, which is the essence of government.”