Tragedy in Kaduna: Ven. Edwin Achi Murdered by Kidnappers

Tragedy struck the Anglican community in Kaduna State as Ven. Edwin Achi, an Anglican priest, was killed by bandits following his abduction alongside his wife, Sarah, and their daughter in Chikun Local Government Area.

The family was kidnapped from their home in Nissi community on October 28, 2025, after armed bandits raided the area at night. The abductors initially demanded a ransom of N600 million, which was later reduced to N200 million, but the family could not raise the required funds.

The Diocese of Kaduna, Anglican Communion, confirmed Achi’s death in a statement, describing the loss as deeply painful for the church and the wider community:

“With heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing unto glory of The Venerable Edwin Achi, Priest-in-Charge of Ebenezer Anglican Church, Ungwan Maijero. 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 continued to appeal for the safe release of his wife and daughter, who remain in captivity, and announced the cancellation of the Standup for Jesus 2025 event in honor of the late priest.

Earlier, kidnappers had released photos of the priest and his wife, threatening to kill them if the ransom was not paid. Achi’s nephew, Avril, later confirmed the priest’s death, explaining that the kidnappers had even used Achi’s phone to post images on his Facebook account.