A tragic incident has rocked the Anglican community in Kaduna State following the killing of Ven. Edwin Achi, a revered Anglican priest who was kidnapped alongside his wife, Sarah, in Chikun Local Government Area. The heartbreaking development has sent shockwaves through the church, local residents, and the wider Nigerian community, highlighting the persistent insecurity challenges in the region.
The couple was abducted from their home in Nissi community on October 28, 2025, after armed bandits carried out a violent late-night raid. Their daughter was also taken during the attack, leaving the family in a state of terror and uncertainty. The incident has since sparked national attention, drawing condemnation from religious leaders, civil society groups, and concerned citizens across Nigeria.
The abductors initially demanded an astronomical ransom of N600 million for the release of the priest and his family. However, they later reduced the amount to N200 million. Unfortunately, the family could not meet the ransom demands, which compounded the stress and anxiety surrounding the case.
In an official statement, the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, announced the death of the clergyman: “With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, the Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, announces the passing unto glory of The Venerable Edwin Achi, Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero. Ven. Edwin Achi, who was kidnapped alongside his wife on 28th October, 2025, has been confirmed dead. His transition is a painful 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.”
The Diocese further requested prayers for the release of his wife and daughter, who remain in the hands of the kidnappers, and announced the cancellation of the Standup for Jesus 2025 event in honor of the late priest. The announcement was made via the Diocese’s official Facebook page on Tuesday, November 26, 2025, emphasizing the profound grief felt by both the church and the wider community.
Earlier on Tuesday, the kidnappers circulated photos of the priest and his wife in captivity, escalating public concern and prompting widespread outrage on social media. The criminals had issued an ultimatum threatening to kill the victims if the ransom was not paid by the weekend.
Family members spoke to journalists from FIJ, expressing devastation and despair. They revealed that the household had been plunged into chaos and grief because they could not meet the kidnappers’ exorbitant ransom demands. One family member explained, “The kidnappers’ initial demand was a ridiculous amount of N600 million, but that has since gone lower, around N200 million or thereabouts now. They threatened that if by this weekend the ransom demand isn’t met, they will be unalived.”
Security agencies have yet to release a formal statement regarding ongoing efforts to rescue the remaining family members still in captivity. The case has reignited calls for stronger government intervention and heightened security in vulnerable communities across Kaduna State and northern Nigeria, emphasizing the urgent need to combat banditry and protect innocent lives.
The loss of Ven. Edwin Achi marks another grim chapter in the ongoing insecurity crisis affecting religious leaders, families, and civilians in Nigeria. The incident underscores the broader societal impact of kidnapping, extortion, and violent crime, reminding citizens and authorities alike of the urgent need for collective action to ensure safety and justice for all.
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