The Nigerian Catholic Bishop urged the public to verify reports before accepting or sharing them, especially when they concern sensitive issues involving the Church and her members.
Fr. Matthew, a member of the Clergy of Yola Diocese, and Fr. Abraham of Nigeria’s Jalingo Catholic Diocese were abducted from the Priests’ Rectory in Gweda-Mallam, located in Demsa Local Government Area of Nigeria’s Adamawa State on February 22.
They were rescued on March 9 following a combined effort of the Department of the State Security Service (DSSS) and a local vigilante group.
In the March 10 interview with ACI Africa, Bishop Mamza expressed gratitude to the DSSS and local vigilante operatives in Numan for their efforts in securing the safe release of the two Priests.
“I sincerely appreciate the security agencies that played a role in rescuing the Priests. In particular, I commend the DSSS and the vigilante group in Numan. They carried out the operation, and I am truly grateful for their swift and professional handling of the situation,” he said.
The Catholic Church leader revealed that the DSSS and vigilante operatives “worked tirelessly from the moment the Priests were kidnapped,” Bishop Mamza said, adding, "Since the Priests were kidnapped, we have worked closely with the DSSS and the vigilante group in Numan. I was aware of all the steps taken. It was the DSSS and vigilante team that stormed the house where the Priests were held and successfully rescued them.”
In the March 10 interview, the Local Ordinary of Yola Diocese recalled the circumstances leading to the arrest of Taledo Damian, saying, “When the kidnapper arrived to collect ransom, security operatives attempted to apprehend him. He initially escaped but later had an accident with his motorcycle and fled on foot.”
Following the successful rescue of the two Priests, Bishop Mamza told ACI Africa, “We ensured that both Priests received proper medical attention immediately … They are stable, and we are grateful to God for their safety.”
“This incident has reinforced our belief in the need for stronger security collaborations. We will continue to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to safeguard our priests, religious leaders, and congregants,” the Bishop of Yola since his Episcopal Ordination in April 2011 said.
He urged the Nigerian government to enhance security measures to prevent similar incidents. He said, “We appeal to the government to do more in tackling the security challenges facing our nation. No one should have to live in fear, especially those who have dedicated their lives to serving God and humanity.”
