Rev. Fr. John Inalegwu Otache, the Catholic priest abducted in Benue State, has reportedly regained his freedom following a rescue operation involving security operatives and local vigilantes.
Otache, the Parish Priest of St. Margaret’s Parish, Ajegbe-Awume, in Ohimini Local Government Area, was kidnapped on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, along the Otobi Amejo-Ajegbe Road while returning home from Otukpo.
His abduction triggered anxiety among members of the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and residents of neighbouring communities, prompting prayers and appeals for his safe release. 
The reported rescue has brought relief to his congregation, the wider Catholic community and others who had expressed concern over his whereabouts.
However, details of the operation remain sketchy, as the circumstances surrounding his rescue and his current health condition have yet to be confirmed.
