The Catholic priest and two others kidnapped by gunmen at Saint Patrick Catholic Church, Gidan Maikambo, Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State, have been released.

Chris Omotosho, the Director of Social Communications for the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, confirmed the release of the victims.

Omotosho, who appreciated the support of the general public, their prayers, and encouragement during the trying moments of the church, expressed gladness that the four victims had been freed.

The Rev. Father Stephen Ojapa, Father Oliver Okpara, as well as Mr. Hassan Hassan and Ms. Ummie Hassan, were on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, in the rectory of Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, Gidan Maikambo, Kafur Local Government Area of Katsina State, abducted by the gunmen.

The four Northern States of Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara are under the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto.