Father Marcellinus Obioma Okide, who was abducted from Nigeria's Enugu Diocese on September 17, is the latest victim of a series of kidnappings in the country. The diocese's chancellor, Father Wilfred Chidi Agubuchie, has called for prayers for Father Okide's safe release.

Father Okide, a parish priest at St. Mary Amofia-Agu Affa Parish, was kidnapped while returning to the parish. The diocese hopes for a change of heart among the kidnappers and for the quick and wholesome release of Father Okide.

Nigeria has been grappling with insecurity since the onset of the Boko Haram insurgency in 2009, aimed at establishing an Islamic state. This group has been responsible for numerous indiscriminate terrorist attacks on various targets, including religious and political groups, as well as civilians.

Additionally, the involvement of predominantly Muslim Fulani herdsmen, often referred to as the Fulani Militia, has further complicated the security situation in the country.

The abduction of Father Okide follows a similar incident in the Diocese of Minna on August 2, where a priest and seminarian were kidnapped.

Fortunately, Father Paul Sanogo and seminarian Melchior Mahinini were released on August 23 after three weeks in captivity.

The diocese and concerned individuals are calling for divine intervention and the safe return of Father Okide, as the scourge of kidnappings continues to affect clergy members in Nigeria.