By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
An Anglican Church priest, Rev. Edwin Achie, who was kidnapped alongside his wife and daughter in Kaduna State, has been killed by his abductors, days after releasing an emotional audio message pleading for a ₦600 million ransom.
Rev. Achie, a cleric under the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, was abducted on 28 October 2025 from his residence in Nissi village, Refinery Junction, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Bandits also kidnapped his wife, Sarah Achie, and their daughter, who remain in captivity.In an audio message released by the abductors shortly after the incident, the priest was heard praying and offering blessings to his parents, family members, and congregation. The bandits threatened to kill him if the ransom was not paid within a specified time.The Diocese of Kaduna formally announced his death in a statement issued on Thursday, describing his killing as a devastating loss to the church and the wider Christian community.“
With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, announces the passing unto glory of Venerable Edwin Achie,” the statement read. “His painful transition is a great loss to the entire diocese, the clergy, the church family, and all who were blessed by his faithful ministry, humble spirit, and unwavering devotion to the service of God. We continue to pray for his wife and daughter, who remain in the hands of the kidnappers.”
Multiple community sources confirmed that the attackers invaded Nissi village about a month ago and took the family at gunpoint. Residents described the incident as part of the growing wave of violent kidnappings in Chikun LGA, one of Kaduna State’s hardest-hit areas.A community source expressed frustration over the worsening insecurity, saying, “It is so frustrating that the Nigerian government is only interested in winning elections and never interested in protecting the lives of Nigerians.”
The Diocese has urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the remaining captives and bring the assailants to justice.Rev. Achie is remembered by parishioners as a dedicated cleric whose ministry touched many lives. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Diocese in due course.
