Seminarian Kelvin Ochai Kidnapped in Benue State

On Wednesday, July 31, 2026, a seminarian named Kelvin Ochai was reportedly kidnapped from the residence of the Catholic Bishop in Otukpo, Benue State. The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo confirmed the abduction in a statement issued on Friday, signed by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev.

Fr. Joseph Aboyi Itodo.

The statement indicated that no information had been received regarding Ochai's whereabouts. Most Rev.

Michael Ekwoyi Apochi, the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo, expressed deep sadness over the incident and urged the faithful to pray for the seminarian's safe return, assuring that efforts were being made to secure his freedom. However, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Peter Aondongu, described the situation as a case of a missing person, stating that Ochai was last seen leaving his room to take a bath.

He noted that there had been a previous attempt to abduct him two weeks prior, which may have contributed to the rumors of his abduction.