The family of an Anglican vicar from Kaduna diocese has confirmed his tragic death after being held captive for nearly a month alongside his wife. The devastating news came to light when kidnappers used the clergyman's own phone to post his photograph on Facebook.
Kidnapping and Ransom Demand
Venerate Edwin Achi, the Anglican vicar of Kaduna diocese, and his wife Mrs. Sarah Achi were forcibly taken from their home on October 28, 2025. According to reports from activist Harrison Gwamnishu of the Safe City Foundation, the kidnappers made an outrageous ransom demand of ₦600 million for the couple's safe release.
The situation took a disturbing turn when the abductors accessed the priest's Facebook account to upload photographs of the captive couple. The images revealed that this was not an isolated incident, as other victims could be seen in the background, indicating a larger kidnapping operation.
Family's Heartbreaking Confirmation
The vicar's nephew, identified on social media platform X as @monsieur_avreel, became the bearer of the tragic news. Hours after the kidnappers posted the photographs on Facebook, the family member announced that his uncle had been killed while in captivity.
In an emotional post that captured the family's anguish, @monsieur_avreel wrote: "They k*lled him, they k*lled him. These monsters k*lled him." The raw grief expressed in the message resonated deeply with Nigerians across social media platforms.
Growing Public Outcry Over Insecurity
The murder of the Anglican priest has sparked renewed concerns about the escalating security crisis in Nigeria. Social media users expressed their frustration and sorrow, with many calling for immediate government action.
One X user, @ProphetUnaziO, drew parallels between the nation's security challenges and spiritual warfare, stating: "For Nigeria to be revived, the church needs to be revived first. The church is the light... darkness has overtaken the land because the church is in slumber."
Another user, @Igbo_boyz, echoed the sentiments of many Nigerians: "Sorry for your loss bro. How long will this continue before the government takes decisive action or people revolt. Can't keep living like this."
Activist Harrison Gwamnishu had previously appealed to both the Tinubu-led federal government and Kaduna state authorities to intervene urgently in the case. He emphasized the need for swift and decisive action from security agencies to address the growing wave of kidnappings across the region.
The tragic death of Venerate Edwin Achi highlights the persistent security challenges facing ordinary Nigerians, particularly in Kaduna state where kidnapping has become increasingly prevalent. As the family mourns their loss, many are questioning the effectiveness of current security measures and calling for more robust action to protect citizens from such violent crimes.
