Nigerian Bishop Urges Prayer for Abducted Priest Amid Jihadist Threat

In a distressing plea, a Nigerian bishop urges global prayers for a priest seized by jihadists. The call comes amid rising concerns over kidnappings by the notorious Boko Haram group.

John Bagna Bakeni, auxiliary bishop of Maiduguri, revealed that Father Alphonsus Afina, along with several others, was kidnapped on June 1. The abduction is attributed to suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) militants.

Infamous for the 2014 mass abduction of 276 schoolgirls, Boko Haram has continued its reign of terror. While some of those girls have escaped or been freed, approximately 80 remain unaccounted for, presumed captive.

Speaking with the Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need, Bishop Bakeni explained, “Father Alphonsus and two other members of the JDPC [Justice, Development and Peace Commission] were scheduled to attend a workshop which was supposed to begin on Monday in Maiduguri, and were making their way there from Mubi.”

He further detailed, “The unfortunate incident happened near Gwoza at about 12:30pm.”

The group, including the priest, was reportedly caught in a clash between the jihadists and Nigerian security forces, often criticized for their lack of action against militant threats.

Bishop Bakeni noted, “There were many fatalities and abductions. One member of the JDPC was shot dead. Father Alphonsus was abducted along with others, and one of the staff of the JDPC was able to escape to safety.”

Reassuringly, jihadists have confirmed to the bishop that Father Alphonsus remains alive. The bishop has since urged prayers for the hostages’ release and the diocese of Maiduguri.

Boko Haram, rebranded as ISWAP in 2015, declared itself the West African arm of Islamic State. However, a leadership dispute in 2016 led to internal conflict between Boko Haram and ISWAP, which also continues to clash with the Nigerian government.

Aid to the Church in Need reports that Father Alphonsus is the 15th religious minister kidnapped this year. While two of the abducted clerics were killed, the others have been freed.