The Old Seminarians Association of Nigeria (OSAN) has expressed deep concerns over the rising cases of abduction of Catholic priests across Nigeria, describing them as “soft targets” for kidnappers.
The association stated this at the 4th annual convention of OSAN themed: “Insecurity: Navigating the complexities of nation-building”), held in Abuja.
The OSAN President and Chief of Staff to the Senate President, Chinedu Francis Akubueze, sounded the alarm, saying, “The clergy among us, who are also old seminarians, are increasingly becoming endangered species. Quite a number of them have been kidnapped, and the Church has paid heavy ransoms. They have become attractive targets for kidnappers who wrongly assume that the Church is wealthy.”
Akubueze acknowledged recent successes by security forces in some cases, but warned that the overall situation demands far more action.
He added, “We gather today with heavy hearts to deliberate on the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, particularly the incessant kidnappings of Catholic priests.”
“The Church appears helpless in this excruciating situation, while government efforts have yet to yield the desired results.”
“Let us join forces to build a society where everyone can live without fear. We pray for the safety of all kidnapped priests and citizens, and we demand decisive action from our leaders.”
He also urged coordination among inter-faith bodies and the government to protect clergy and worship centres.
According to reports, between 2015 and 2025, a total of 145 priests were abducted in Nigeria, with 11 killed and several missing.
Priests and clerics in rural or less-protected communities are especially vulnerable because they may be among the few local authority figures who remain on the ground.
The perception of “the Church being rich” or the idea that a priest can attract a high ransom is cited as an incentive by kidnappers.
The phenomenon poses a threat to religious freedom, to the safety of faith-workers, and to the stability of communities that rely on church leadership for support.
