Venerable Edwin Achi, the Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church in Ungwan Maijero, Kaduna, has died while being held by his abductors.
A source confirmed the development on Wednesday night but declined to provide further information.
Reverend Joseph John Hayab, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory, also verified the incident.
“This is true but sad to the church and his family,” he said in response to an inquiry.
Achi was taken alongside his wife and daughter when armed bandits invaded his residence in Nissi community, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna, on October 28, 2025. The family had only recently moved into the area when the attack occurred. The kidnappers later demanded a ransom of N600 million.
The deceased priest was originally from Umuaja in Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement, the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna announced his passing and expressed concern for the safety of his wife and daughter.
“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.
“We continue to pray for the release of his wife and daughter who are still in the hands of the kidnappers.”
The tragedy comes as Nigeria faces escalating security challenges.
Earlier on Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu declared a nationwide State of Emergency on security and directed the police and military to embark on large-scale recruitment. He further ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy trained forest guards to track down criminal elements hiding in remote areas.
“The agency also has my directive to recruit more men to man the forests. There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” Tinubu said.
“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas. The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation.
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness. This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe and ensure our citizens live in peace.”
The President also urged the National Assembly to begin reviewing existing laws to allow states interested in establishing state police to proceed.
Nigeria continues to draw global attention over a surge in abductions and killings, with opposition leaders intensifying criticism of the government’s handling of insecurity
