Abducted Prelate of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, His Eminence, Samuel Chukwuemeka Kanu-Uche, the Bishop of Owerri, Rt. Rev. Dennis Mark, and the Prelate’s Chaplain, Very Rev. Abidemi Jeremiah Shittu, were released on Monday.
After they were kidnapped on Sunday in Umunneochi Local Government Area of Abia State, the abductors demanded for N100 million ransom.
It is, however, not clear if money was paid before they were released.
Police spokesman in Abia State, SP Geoffrey Ogbonna, confirmed their release in Umuahia on Monday.
Asked if they paid any ransom, Ogbonna said, “I can only confirm to you that they have been freed this evening. I don’t have the details for now.”
They were abducted on Sunday while they were on their way from a programme in Umunneochi Local Government Area.
The Executive Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government Area, Chief Ifeanyi Madu, also confirmed their release.
This is contained in a statement by the council secretary, Mr Peter Uba.
“The Chairman joyfully wish to announce the release of His Eminence, Dr. SCK Uche JP, the Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria and his entourage from their abductors.
“This was confirmed by the Lay President Methodist Church Nigeria, Sir Ifeanyi Okechukwu.
“The prelate is currently in a church giving praises to God. Details coming soon,” the statement said.
