Terrorists have executed an Anglican priest from Kaduna State after holding him captive for nearly a month alongside his wife and daughter. The heartbreaking development has sent shockwaves through the Christian community and highlighted the worsening security situation in the region.
The Abduction and Ransom Demands
Bandits invaded Nissi community in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State on October 28, 2025, forcefully taking Ven. Edwin Achi and his wife, Sarah, who works as a customs officer. The attackers initially contacted the family demanding an enormous ransom of N600 million for their safe release.
According to family sources, the kidnappers later reduced their demand to N200 million but issued a stern ultimatum: pay by the end of the week or the captives would be killed. A relative revealed the family's desperation, stating that "nobody has that kind of ransom lying around" to meet the terrorists' demands.
Confirmation of Tragic Death
The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, confirmed the priest's death in an official statement posted on their Facebook page on Tuesday, November 26, 2025. The statement expressed deep sorrow and described Ven. Achi as the Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero.
"With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, announces the passing unto glory of The Venerable Edwin Achi," the statement read. It further noted that his "transition is a painful loss to the entire Diocese" and praised his faithful ministry and unwavering devotion to God.
Ongoing Captivity and Church Response
While the priest has been confirmed dead, his wife Sarah and their daughter remain in captivity. The diocese announced they are continuing to pray for their release and have canceled the "Standup for Jesus 2025" event in honor of the slain clergyman.
The confirmation of Ven. Achi's death came hours after the kidnappers had released photographs of the couple in captivity. The priest's nephew, Avril, revealed that the bandits had used the vicar's own phone to take the photos and upload them to his Facebook page.
In an emotional statement, Avril confirmed the murder, writing: "They killed him. These monsters killed him." The family now faces the dual tragedy of mourning their loved while continuing to fight for the freedom of those still held captive by the heartless terrorists.
