By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Kaduna Anglican Diocese has confirmed the death of one of its senior clerics, Venerable Edwin Achi, who died while being held by abductors in Kaduna State.
His wife and daughter, who were kidnapped alongside him, remain in captivity.
Achi and his wife, Sarah, were abducted in late October 2025 from their home in the Nissi community of Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The incident received little public attention despite growing concerns over rising insecurity in the area.
The Diocese, while confirming the incidence through Most Revd Timothy Yahaya, the Bishop of Kaduna Diocese
described the development as painful and devastating.
Rev. Timothy said, “the Church announces with a heavy heart and deep sorrow the passing unto glory of Venerable Edwin Achi,” adding that the priest’s death represents a significant loss to the Diocese, the clergy and the wider Church community.
According to the Bishop, Achi was confirmed dead while in the custody of his captors after weeks of uncertainty.
He further noted that his ministry was marked by humility, dedication and an unwavering commitment to the service of God. It also reaffirmed the Church’s continued prayers for the safe release of his wife and daughter, who remain in the hands of the abductors.
A senior source within the Anglican community disclosed that the abductors had earlier sent photographs of the priest and his wife to their family as proof of life and demanded a ransom of six hundred million naira. The images reportedly showed the captives in distress, appearing frail and held alongside other individuals who were also chained.
The Diocese said it has suspended a scheduled programme that was to commence this week in honour of the late cleric, noting that the entire Church has been plunged into mourning.
Venerable Achi served as the Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maigero, Kaduna, before his abduction and subsequent death.
