Reverend Father Mikah Suleiman, who had been kidnapped by bandits two weeks ago, has regained his freedom. This news brings immense relief to the Catholic community and all those who had been anxiously awaiting his safe return.
In a statement released on Sunday by Reverend Father Pascal Salifu, Director of Communications for the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, it was announced that Father Suleiman, the parish priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church in Damba, Gusau, Zamfara State, has been released and is now receiving the necessary care and support.
Reverend Father Salifu expressed profound gratitude, stating, “We are overjoyed to announce the safe release of Fr Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped on 22/06/2024. 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 continue to keep him in your prayers as he begins his recovery.”
The kidnapping of Father Suleiman occurred at around 3 am on Saturday, June 22nd, at his residence in the Damba area of Gusau. Following his abduction, the Zamfara State Police Command promptly deployed a police tactical squad to track down the kidnappers and ensure the priest’s safe return. Yazid Abubakar, spokesperson for the Zamfara State Police Command, confirmed the abduction and the subsequent efforts by law enforcement to rescue Father Suleiman.
Abubakar stated, “We were not informed when the incident happened, but what I gathered was that the man stays alone, not in the church. We have deployed our tactical squad to go after the kidnappers with the aim of rescuing the victim unhurt.”
The acting Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Very Reverend Father Nuhu Iliya, had earlier announced the abduction and called upon Christians to pray for Father Suleiman’s quick and safe release. “With sadness in our hearts, we write to inform the general public of the kidnap of one of our priests, Revd. Fr. Mikah Suleiman.
This sad event occurred in the early hours of today, Saturday, 22nd June 2024 in the Father’s rectory. Fr Mikah is the Parish Priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church Damba, Gusau, Zamfara State,” the statement read. “We invite all Christ’s faithful and all men and women of goodwill to earnestly pray for his quick and safe release. We equally commend him to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Priests, for his speedy release from the hands of his abductors.”
The safe release of Father Suleiman is a testament to the combined efforts of the community, law enforcement, and divine providence. The Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, while overjoyed, continues to urge the faithful to keep Father Suleiman in their prayers as he embarks on his journey of recovery. The incident has highlighted the ongoing security challenges in Zamfara State and the need for continued vigilance and prayer.
As Father Suleiman receives the care and support he needs, the community remains united in gratitude and prayer, hopeful for a swift recovery and a return to his pastoral duties. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the power of faith and community in overcoming adversity.
