Olushola Omogbhein
Amid growing insecurity in Benue State, a pastor and two members of his congregation have been abducted in the State.
The kidnapping occurred in the early hours of Tuesday at the residence of the pastor located within the NKST Church premises in Andyar, Ishan Classis, according to a statement issued by the church’s Executive Committee.
Expressing concern over the incident, the church described the attack as painful but urged members to remain steadfast in faith while praying for the victims’ safe return.
“It is with a heavy heart, yet with unwavering confidence in the sovereignty of Almighty God, that we announce the unfortunate abduction of our cleric, Rev. Dr. Samuel Gbinde, along with two members of his congregation,” the statement said.
The church urged clergy, worshippers and supporters across the country to unite in prayer for the unconditional release of the abducted pastor and the two church members.
It called on Benue State, Federal Governments and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and ensure those responsible for the crime are arrested and prosecuted.
The church also urged authorities to adopt more proactive strategies to tackle kidnapping and other violent crimes instead of responding only after attacks have occurred.
