Christians in Nigeria are rejoicing after a Catholic priest kidnapped earlier this month was freed.

Father Benson Bulus Luka was abducted from his residence on 13th September, becoming the latest victim of attacks against Christians in the Kaduna State.

The chancellor of Kafanchan diocese, in northern Nigeria, Fr Emmanuel Uchechukwu, told ACI Africa: “With hearts filled with joy, we raise our voices in a symphony of praises as we announce the return of our priest, Rev Fr Benson Bulus Luka.

“Barely 24 hours after his kidnap, our beloved brother priest was released by his abductors.”

Fr Uchechukwu continued by thanking all of those who joined in prayer for the release of Fr Benson.

“We want to thank all those that have offered prayers and entreaties for the quick release of our brother priest and others who are still in the dens of their kidnappers,” he said. “We pray to God to hasten the release of those who are still in the hands of their captors.”