The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has issued a strong condemnation following the brutal murder of one of its priests from the Kaduna Diocese. The victim, Venerable Edwin Achi, was killed by his abductors after being held captive for one month.
Church Demands Immediate Release of Family
In a statement released from Abuja, the Primate of the Church, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the priest's wife and daughter. They were abducted alongside Venerable Achi and remain in the custody of their captors, deepening the family's trauma. Reverend Ndukuba pleaded for their freedom so they can participate in laying their husband and father to rest.
A Call for National Action Against Insecurity
Primate Ndukuba described the killing as a painful reminder of the severe violence affecting communities across Nigeria. He stated that this senseless act of evil wounds the conscience of our nation and highlights the critical need for decisive government action. He called on authorities to identify, expose, and punish the sponsors and financiers of the banditry and violence plaguing northern Nigeria and other regions.
The statement also extended prayers to all Nigerians currently held by kidnappers, wishing for their safe return. The Primate urged the Federal Government, security agencies, and international partners to intensify efforts to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for banditry, terrorism, and religious persecution.
Honoring a Faithful Servant
Paying tribute to the late clergyman, Ndukuba honored Venerable Edwin Achi as a faithful servant of God whose life of sacrifice and devotion was brutally cut short. He expressed hope that the priest's death would not be in vain but would instead become a rallying point for firmer action to eradicate the menace threatening Nigeria's stability and unity.
The Church leader concluded with a prayer, asking for comfort for the bereaved family, strength for the Church, and healing for the nation.
