ABUJA, Nigeria — Sixteen Christians abducted in Nigeria in December remain captive even though ransom has been paid, and four others elsewhere were kidnapped in January.
The 16 were among at least 20 abducted Dec. 19, 23 and 26 from Pupule Town, Dila village and Gongon village in Taraba state, reports Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. Two of the captives are Elkanah Ayuba and Simon Ezra, pastors for the United Methodist Church.
The UMC paid $12,264 (11 million naira) for release of the individuals, reports the news service, quoting a UMC official.
On Jan. 13 in Benue state, Haanongon Gideon, who is a pastor, and three others with him were ambushed and kidnapped on Katsina-Ala-Zaki Biam Highway near Anyagba, the news service says. Armed Muslim Fulani herdsmen and other terrorists are believed to be responsible.
Nigeria has led the world in the number of Christians killed for their faith or kidnapped. Nigeria is No. 6 on Open Doors’ 2024 World Watch List of places most difficult to be a Christian.
Share with others: