By Goodluck Ikiebe
Reverend Father Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped by bandits two weeks ago, has regained freedom.
The Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Reverend Father Pascal Salifu, who announced the release on Sunday, stated that Father Suleiman, the Parish Priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church, Damba in Gusau, Zamfara State, is now receiving necessary care and support.
“We are overjoyed to announce the safe release of Fr. Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped on 22/06/2024,” Father Salifu noted.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to God for His protection and to everyone, who offered prayers and support during this challenging time.
Our thanks also go to the authorities and all involved in securing Fr. Mikah’s release.
He is currently receiving the necessary care and support. Please keep him in your prayers as he begins his recovery.”
Father Suleiman was kidnapped around 3 am on Saturday, June 21, at his residence in the Damba area of Gusau. Following the abduction, the Zamfara State Police Command deployed a tactical squad to track the kidnappers and ensure Father Suleiman’s safe return.
The spokesperson for the Zamfara State Police Command, Yazid Abubakar, confirmed the incident. “Yes, the incident happened early this morning. The Reverend Father was kidnapped at his residence.
“We were not informed when the incident happened, but what I gathered was that the man stays alone, not in the church,” Abubakar said. “We have deployed our tactical squad to go after the kidnappers to rescue the victim unhurt.”
In the aftermath of the kidnapping, the acting Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Very Reverend Father Nuhu Iliya, called on the Christian faithful to pray for the quick and safe release of the cleric.
Father Suleiman’s release has brought immense relief and joy to the local community and the broader Catholic faithful, who had been fervently praying for his safe return.
