A senior priest, Venerable Edwin Achi, Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero, Kaduna, who was kidnapped about one month ago, is dead.
It was gathered that Achi was killed in captivity, just days after his captors circulated images showing him alongside his wife. He was kidnapped alongside his wife and daughter on October 28, a few days after they relocated to Nissi community, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
The death of the priest has been confirmed by Reverend Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“This is true, but sad to the church and his family,” he said in response to Daily Trust’s inquiry. Before his unfortunate death, the terrorists had demanded N600 million as ransom. The deceased hailed from Umuaja in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State.
Meanwhile, the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna, while confirming the death of the priest, expressed concern over the safety of his wife and their daughter.
In a statement Wednesday night, the Diocese said: “With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, announces the passing unto glory of The Venerable Edwin Achi, Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero.
“Ven. Edwin Achi, who was kidnapped alongside his wife on 28th October, 2025, has been confirmed dead. His transition is a painful loss to the entire Diocese, the clergy, the Church family, and all who were blessed by his faithful ministry, humble spirit, and unwavering devotion to the service of God.
“We continue to pray for the release of his wife and daughter, who are still in the hands of the murderous kidnappers.” As of the time of filing this report, nothing has been heard about the priest’s wife and their daughter.
