- Wife, daughter still held in captivity by bandit-abductors
Venerable Edwin Achi, Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero, Kaduna, has died in captivity.
But Reverend Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), confirmed the tragic incident.
“This is true but sad to the church and his family,” he said in response to Daily Trust’s inquiry.
Venerable Achi, who hailed from Umuaja in Ukwuani Local Government Area (LGA) of Delta State, was kidnapped alongside his wife and daughter when bandits broke into his house in Nissi community, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna, on October 28, 2025.
The family had just relocated to the community when bandits struck. The abductors later contacted the family to demand N600 million ransom.
In a statement, Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, confirmed his demise and prayed for the release of his wife and daughter who are still in the custody of the bandits.
“With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, announces the passing unto glory of The Venerable Edwin Achi, Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero.”
“Ven. Edwin Achi, who was kidnapped alongside his wife on 28th October, 2025, has been confirmed dead. His transition is a painful loss to the entire Diocese, the clergy, the Church family, and all who were blessed by his faithful ministry, humble spirit, and unwavering devotion to the service of God.
“We continue to pray for the release of his wife and daughter who are still in the hands of the kidnappers.”
The development comes at a time Nigeria battles one of the worse forms of insecurity in its existence.
Written with reports from Daily Trust
