Fact Check: Was a Seminarian Kidnapped from the Bishop’s House in Otukpo?

Claim

A seminarian, Mr. Kelvin Ochai, was kidnapped from the residence of the Catholic Bishop of Otukpo (Bishop’s House) in Asa III, Otukpo, Benue State.

Why We Checked

The incident generated widespread attention on social media and in the news. However, conflicting statements emerged between the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo and the Benue State Police Command, making it necessary to verify the claim.

Verification

1. Official Statement from the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo

The Catholic Diocese of Otukpo, through its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Joseph Itodo, announced that seminarian Kelvin Ochai was abducted during an attack on the Bishop’s Residence in Asa III, Otukpo, on 29 July 2026. The Diocese appealed for prayers and stated that efforts were underway to secure his release. This account was reported by multiple credible news organisations.

2. Position of the Benue State Police Command

The Benue State Police Command initially disputed the kidnapping narrative, saying it had not established that the seminarian was kidnapped. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, the matter was being treated as a missing person case while investigations continued.

3. Subsequent Development

The seminarian was later found alive after reportedly escaping from his abductors, ending the uncertainty surrounding his disappearance. This development is consistent with the Diocese’s earlier position that he had been abducted.

Verdict

TRUE.

Available evidence supports the claim that seminarian Kelvin Ochai was actually abducted from the Bishop’s Residence in Otukpo. Although the Benue State Police initially classified the incident as a missing person case pending investigation, the seminarian’s later escape from his captors corroborated the Catholic Diocese’s account that he had been kidnapped.

This piece  was produced in collaboration with the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) as part of its Media Fellowship in Benue State.

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