Tensions continue to mount in northeastern Nigeria after the shocking abduction of Reverend Alphonsus Afina, a Catholic priest who was kidnapped by suspected Boko Haram insurgents while returning from a church workshop earlier this week.
According to local sources and eyewitnesses, the ambush occurred on a remote road near Gwoza, a region long plagued by extremist violence. At least one life was lost during the attack, and several others reportedly sustained injuries.
“This was a calculated assault. They knew who they were targeting,” said a community source who requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation. The source added that Reverend Afina had been actively involved in peacebuilding efforts within conflict-affected Christian communities in Borno.
The abduction of clergy by terrorist groups is not new in Nigeria’s northern region. Over the past decade, priests, aid workers, and school children have frequently been targeted in a strategy aimed at destabilizing both community morale and international trust in the government’s ability to protect its citizens.
But the capture of Rev. Afina a peaceful, widely respected priest has struck a deeper chord.
“This is not just an attack on a man of God,” said local activist Hauwa Zira. “It’s an attack on our collective hope, our faith, and our right to worship freely without fear of execution or captivity.”
As of this writing, no official statement has been issued by the Nigerian government or the military concerning Rev. Afina’s abduction. The Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri is reportedly in touch with security operatives but has asked for prayers and restraint from the public.
The silence from both federal and state authorities has sparked renewed outrage on social media, with hashtags like #BringBackOurPriests, #PrayForAfina, and #NigeriaSecurityCrisis trending across platforms.
Reverend Afina’s kidnapping is a chilling reminder that despite years of counter-insurgency campaigns and billions spent on defense, ordinary Nigerians especially in the northeast remain vulnerable to terrorism, banditry, and religious persecution.
As citizens call for his safe return, the bigger question looms: When will this end? How many more must die, disappear, or suffer in silence before lasting security becomes a reality?
Until that answer comes, we pray. And we demand: Bring him home. Now.
