Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
A disagreement has emerged between the Benue State Police Command and the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo over the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of seminarian Kelvin Ochai, with security authorities describing the incident as a missing person case while the Church insists he was abducted.
The conflicting accounts have heightened public concern over the fate of the young seminarian, as insecurity continues to plague Benue State and other parts of Nigeria’s North Central region.
The Benue State Police Command said it is currently treating Ochai’s disappearance as a missing person investigation, stressing that available evidence has not conclusively established that he was kidnapped.
Police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet explained that investigators have begun efforts to determine exactly what happened, urging the public to avoid speculation while security agencies gather facts.
According to the police, no verified evidence has yet emerged confirming an abduction, making it necessary for investigators to classify the matter as a missing person case pending further findings.
The command appealed to residents to provide any useful information that could assist investigators in locating the seminarian.
Catholic Diocese Maintains Seminarian Was Abducted
However, the Catholic Diocese of Otukpo has strongly rejected the police’s position, insisting that Kelvin Ochai was kidnapped by unidentified gunmen.
Church authorities stated that information available to the Diocese points to an abduction rather than a voluntary disappearance.
The Diocese has called on security agencies to intensify rescue efforts instead of treating the matter merely as a missing person report.
Church leaders said the distinction is important because an abduction requires urgent tactical operations and coordinated security responses to improve the chances of rescuing the victim alive.
The Diocese has also appealed to Christians and members of the public to pray for Ochai’s safe return while urging authorities to bring those responsible to justice.
Growing Insecurity in Benue
The incident comes amid worsening insecurity across Benue State, where kidnappings, armed attacks and violent crimes have become increasingly common.
Several communities in the state have witnessed repeated attacks by armed groups, leading to deaths, displacement and widespread fear.
Religious institutions have also become frequent targets.
In recent years, Catholic priests, seminarians and worshippers have been kidnapped in various parts of Nigeria, prompting repeated calls by church leaders for stronger security measures. The Diocese of Otukpo itself has experienced several cases involving clergy and parishioners in recent years.
Security analysts warn that continued attacks on religious institutions could discourage educational and pastoral activities while deepening fears among local communities.
Security Agencies Continue Investigation
Authorities have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that every available lead is being examined.
Police say they remain committed to uncovering the truth surrounding Ochai’s disappearance and have encouraged anyone with credible information to report to the nearest police station.
Meanwhile, the Diocese continues to press for a more aggressive search operation, expressing hope that the seminarian will be found safely.
The differing narratives from the police and the Church underscore the challenges security agencies often face during the early stages of disappearance cases, especially in regions affected by persistent insecurity.
As investigations continue, family members, church faithful and residents across Benue remain anxious for answers regarding Kelvin Ochai’s whereabouts.
Whether the case is ultimately confirmed as an abduction or another form of disappearance, it has once again drawn attention to Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis and the vulnerability of religious communities operating in high-risk areas.
Sources: Police statements; Catholic Diocese of Otukpo; Premium Times; Vatican News.
