M10news – In a shocking incident that has sent waves of concern throughout the community, Father Mikah Suleiman, the parish priest of St. Raymond Damba Church in Damba, Gasau, Zamfara State, was abducted in the early hours of Saturday, June 22nd.
The kidnapping, which is believed to be the work of terrorists, has prompted calls for prayers and immediate action for his safe return.
The chancellor of Sokoto Diocese, Father Nuhu Ilya, confirmed the abduction in a statement released shortly after the incident.
According to the statement, the Nigeria Guardian newspaper attributed the act to terrorists, marking another distressing episode in the ongoing insecurity plaguing the region.
Father Ilya’s message conveyed a profound sense of grief and urgency.
“With sadness in our hearts, we write to inform the general public of the kidnap of one of our priests, Revd Fr Mikah Suleiman,” the statement read.
The news has not only alarmed the local parish but also resonated with the broader community, highlighting the persistent threat of abductions in the area.
The diocese has called upon the faithful and people of goodwill to join in prayer for Father Suleiman’s quick and safe release. “We invite all Christ’s faithful and all men and women of goodwill to pray earnestly for his quick and safe release,” Father Ilya urged.
This plea underscores the importance of community solidarity and spiritual support in times of crisis.
Additionally, the diocese commended Father Suleiman for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a significant figure in the Catholic faith.
“We equally commend him to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of priests, for his speedy release from the hands of his abductors,” the statement added. This spiritual appeal aims to fortify the community’s hope and resilience.
The abduction of Father Suleiman has reignited discussions on the safety and security of religious leaders and communities in Zamfara State and beyond.
As authorities investigate and search for the kidnapped priest, the call for enhanced security measures remains ever more critical. The community continues to hold its breath, praying and hoping for Father Suleiman’s swift and safe return.
