27th April, 2012
Kidnappers of a Catholic priest, Reverend Father Nwika Gbinu have demanded a N50 million ransom for the man of God to regain his freedom, after spending four days in their den.
Rev. Nwika was reportedly kidnapped at about 2 a.m. on Monday at his residence at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Onne in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, Southsouth Nigeria.
The cleric’s elder brother, Ledum said the whereabouts of his brother had remained unknown as the kidnappers had not contacted the family.
However, a source claimed the abductors have demanded N50 million ransom from the cleric’s church to enable him regain his freedom.
Reacting to the demand for ransom, the Director of Social Communications for the Port Harcourt Diocese of the Catholic Church, Rev. Father Chris Anyanwu said the church was not ready to part with a dime.
The cleric’s brother, Ledum appealed to the abductors to release his brother unconditionally, arguing that he is not a politician and his church did not organise any launch or harvest programme where huge amount of money could be raised.
Rivers State Police Command Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Benjamin Ugwuegbulam confirmed the kidnap of the cleric.
He added that the matter is being investigated and efforts are ongoing to rescue the catholic priest.
—Okafor Ofiebor/ Port Harcourt