Summary
The Anglican community in Kaduna has been thrown into deep mourning following confirmation that the abducted priest in charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero in Chikun Local Government Area, Reverend Edwin Achi, has died while held by his captors.
Reverend Achi and his wife were seized by armed bandits from their home in Nissi Village, close to the Kaduna Refinery, on October 28, 2025. The couple was whisked away to an undisclosed hideout, triggering widespread concern across the Diocese and beyond.
Several days after carrying out the abduction, the assailants reached out to the family with a staggering ransom demand of N600m, insisting that payment was required before they would consider freeing the victims.
The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, has now confirmed the tragic development. In a statement released to the public, Church leaders described Reverend Achi’s passing as a devastating blow to the Diocese, the clergy, the wider Church community, and all who had encountered his selfless service.
According to the statement shared on the Diocese’s official Facebook page, “The Venerable Edwin, who was kidnapped alongside his wife on 28th October, 2025, has been confirmed dead.” This announcement underscored the Church’s grief and the immense impact Reverend Achi had made during his years of ministry.
The Diocese further wrote, “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.”
Amid the sorrow, prayers continue to be lifted for the safe return of the priest’s wife and daughter, who remain in the custody of the abductors. Church leaders appealed for divine intervention, urging authorities and the public to keep the remaining captives in their thoughts and prayers.
The anguishing development comes as Kaduna and several parts of northern Nigeria continue to grapple with persistent cases of abductions, leaving families and communities traumatized.
What you should know
Reverend Edwin Achi’s death marks a heartbreaking chapter in Kaduna’s ongoing battle with insecurity.
Abducted alongside his wife and daughter, the cleric’s passing has shaken the Anglican Diocese, which is still pleading for the safe release of the remaining captives.
His dedicated ministry and gentle spirit leave behind a legacy cherished by many, even as the community mourns and calls for greater protection and decisive action against banditry.
