Nigeria: kidnapped priest and driver released safely

The Vice Chancellor of Veritas University Rev Prof Justin Ukpong and his driver, are both safe and well, after being released by a group a group who abducted them on 24 June, Fides announced today.

Archbishop John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan, Archbishop of Abuja said that the Church has not paid a ransom. Archbishop Onaiyekan said: "Together we bishops made the firm decision not to pay any ransom. At least another five priests have been kidnapped recently. We have decided to put an end to this crime involving innocent citizens,"

On 28 May, three students of the University were also kidnapped from the university's women's residence in Obehie. The students were released after 10 days, without the payment of ransom.

Source: Fides