A Catholic priest, Rev. Father Alphonsus Afina, who was abducted by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State on June 1, has been freed along with 10 female hostages, Hobnob News has confirmed.
Rev. Afina was reportedly kidnapped during an insurgent attack along the Gwoza-Ngwoche axis, a volatile area in southern Borno State, where an aid worker tragically lost their life in the same incident.
The Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State Chapter, Apostle Joshua Akeredolu, confirmed the development on Tuesday, stating that the priest was released on Monday.
“He was released yesterday. He was kidnapped during the attack in the Gwoza-Ngwoche area. The Catholic Church is already arranging for him to be moved out of the state for urgent medical attention,” Akeredolu stated.
While details remain limited on the conditions surrounding the release, a reliable security source revealed to Hobnob News that the Department of State Services (DSS) and troops from the Nigerian Army conducted the operation that led to the rescue of 10 other women along with the priest.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not returned at press time.
Security analysts say the release signals ongoing efforts by Nigerian forces to rescue victims of insurgent captivity across the North-East. However, it also underscores the persistent threat posed by non-state actors in the region.
The Catholic Church is expected to provide updates after Rev. Afina receives comprehensive medical care.
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