Evangelist, 12 Cross River Youths Abducted, Endure Eight Days in Captivity

What was meant to be a journey of faith has spiralled into a distressing ordeal, as Evangelist Prince CE Perfect Boma and 12 other young Cross Riverians remain in the hands of kidnappers after eight days in captivity.

 

The victims were reportedly abducted while travelling from Calabar to Abuja to attend an international Christian conference organised by the Holiness Revival Movement Worldwide in Kwali, Abuja. Their journey was cut short in Aloma Village, Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, where gunmen intercepted and kidnapped them.

 

Family members and close associates say the victims have been subjected to severe hardship since their abduction, including starvation and physical torture. The kidnappers are said to be demanding a ransom of ₦10 million for each victim, placing immense pressure on already distressed families.

 

At the centre of the incident is Evangelist Perfect Boma, described by associates as a devoted minister and youth leader. He serves as the State Evangelist of the Holiness Revival Movement in Cross River State and is also known for his work as a music instructor and regional prayer coordinator.

 

His abduction has drawn particular concern due to his recent transition into civilian life after completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kano State. A native of Itigidi in Abi Local Government Area, Boma was said to be awaiting employment and looking forward to building his future before the incident occurred. His birthday, which falls on May 6, is now set to be marked under uncertain and troubling conditions.

 

The emotional toll has been especially heavy on his father, Pastor Boma, who serves as the Abi Local Government Chairman of the Cross River State Indigenous Gospel Ministers Forum. Friends and community members say the cleric, known for offering spiritual guidance to others, is now grappling with the possible loss of his son and the other abducted youths.

 

Relatives of the victims have issued an urgent appeal to the Cross River State Government, calling on Governor Bassey Edet Otu to intervene and work with authorities in Kogi State to secure the safe release of the abductees.

 

They warn that the situation is rapidly deteriorating, with each passing day increasing the risk to the victims’ health and safety.

 

The incident has once again raised concerns over the security of travellers across Nigeria, particularly those moving between states for religious and social activities.

 

Community leaders and civil society groups have also called for broader national attention, urging security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and prevent further occurrences.

 

As anxiety grows among families and well-wishers, many Nigerians have also been urged to offer support through advocacy and prayers, amid hopes that the abducted youths will be rescued safely.

 

For now, the fate of the 13 young individuals remains uncertain, as their families continue to wait and hope for urgent intervention before the situation worsens.

 

By Cletus Albert Amawu