Catholic Priest Kidnapped In Ibi Taraba

Catholic Priest Rev. Fr Thaddeus Tarhembe Kidnapped In Ibi Taraba State

In an unfortunate incident that has gripped the hearts of many, a respected clergyman from the St Ann’s Parish in Sarkin Kudu, situated within the Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State, Rev. Fr Thaddeus Tarhembe, was tragically abducted. This grim event has shone a spotlight on the increasing cases of kidnapping in the region and brought attention to the underlying security concerns.

The incident was confirmed by the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Rev Mark Nzukwein. His words were heavy with concern for the wellbeing of the abducted priest. The circumstances surrounding this heinous crime are concerning. It was reported that Rev. Fr Thaddeus Tarhembe was taken in the early hours of Sunday, precisely at about 2 am. Witnesses state that four men, armed and looking menacing, stormed his rectory, catching the priest and the church off-guard.

A subsequent statement shedding more light on the incident was put out by the Communication Director of the Diocese, Rev. Fr. John Jerome. He provided a vivid recount of the event, detailing that the priest’s peaceful abode was suddenly invaded by these criminals who, by the nature of their act, seem to be driven by sinister motives.

The motive behind the abduction remains unclear. Often in such cases, financial extortion might be the driving factor. However, it’s deeply troubling to consider that religious leaders are now potential targets for such harrowing crimes. It raises the broader question of the overall safety and security conditions in the region, and whether enough is being done to protect its citizens, particularly those in high-profile, influential roles such as Rev. Fr Thaddeus Tarhembe.

Bishop Nzukwein, in his plea, reached out to the larger community, urging everyone, irrespective of their religious beliefs, to rally in unity during these trying times. He called for prayers, emphasizing the power of collective hope and faith in ensuring the safe return of the priest. His words echoed the sentiments of the countless parishioners and well-wishers who hold Rev. Fr Thaddeus Tarhembe in high regard. Many have come forward to hold vigils, praying for his safety and a resolution to this dreadful ordeal.

While the church is leaning on faith, the expectation remains that law enforcement agencies will do their part in locating the priest and bringing his abductors to justice. The Taraba State Police Command has been notably silent about the incident. Despite attempts to reach out to them for a statement or even a mere acknowledgment of the event, their response has been lacking. SP Abdullahi Usman, who is the Spokesperson of the Command, had not provided any comments or updates regarding the incident at the time this report was collated.

The silence from the police is unsettling for many, as it hints at either a lack of information or an unwillingness to share updates with the public. In either case, it paints a grim picture of the state of security and the responsiveness of the authorities in the region. Such incidents only emphasize the urgent need for bolstered security measures and improved intelligence networks to preempt and prevent these events in the future.

The incident is a grim reminder that even places of worship, once considered sanctuaries, are not immune to the growing insecurity plaguing the nation. It calls for collective reflection and action, both on the part of the authorities and the general public, to ensure that justice is served and that the safety of all citizens is prioritized.

As the community, both religious and secular, waits for updates, they remain united in their hope for the safe return of Rev. Fr Thaddeus Tarhembe. It is the collective hope that this unfortunate incident serves as a catalyst for much-needed change in security policies and measures in the region and the nation at large.