The Bishop of Yola Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Stephen Dami Mamza, has categorically refuted claims that Taledo Damian, the recently arrested kidnapper of two Catholic priests, was ever a mass server or cleric within the diocese.
Addressing a press conference in Yola, Bishop Mamza dismissed the widespread misinformation surrounding Damian’s identity, emphasizing that while the suspect was a member of the church, he never held any official role.
> “I want to make it absolutely clear that the kidnapper is not a mass server, nor is he a cleric. He is simply a member of the church. There has been a lot of misinformation about his identity, and it is important to correct this,” the bishop asserted.
Defending the integrity of the church, Bishop Mamza expressed deep concern over the spread of false narratives, warning that such misinformation could damage the reputation of clergy members and mass servers, who play vital roles in church activities.
> “Mass servers are dedicated individuals who serve with honor and commitment. Their reputation should not be unfairly tarnished due to misinformation,” he added.
The bishop extended heartfelt appreciation to the Department of State Services (DSS) and local vigilante operatives for their swift and professional intervention in rescuing the abducted priests.
> “I want to sincerely commend the security agents, particularly the DSS and the vigilante group in Numan, for their dedication and bravery. Their coordinated efforts led to the successful rescue of our priests, and for that, we are deeply grateful,” he said.
Recounting the harrowing ordeal, Bishop Mamza disclosed that from the moment Rev. Father Mathew David Dusami of Yola Catholic Diocese and Rev. Father Abraham Samman of Jalingo Diocese were abducted on February 22, 2025, security operatives worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure their safe return.
> “Since the priests were kidnapped, we have worked closely with the DSS and vigilante group in Numan. I am aware of all the steps taken. It was the DSS and vigilante team that stormed the house where the priests were held and successfully rescued them,” he revealed.
Security operatives had attempted to apprehend the kidnapper when he came to collect ransom. Though he initially evaded capture, he later crashed his motorcycle while attempting to flee.
“While trying to surrender himself to the DSS, he was somehow taken into police custody instead,” the bishop added.
Bishop Mamza reassured the public that both priests had undergone thorough medical examinations and were found to be in stable condition. He also confirmed that all exhibits recovered from the suspect were now in DSS custody as investigations continue.
Reaffirming the diocese’s commitment to security collaboration, he assured that the church would remain vigilant and continue working closely with authorities to safeguard its clergy and worshippers.
> “We remain resolute in our mission and will not allow fear to deter us from our faith. The safety of our clergy and worshippers remains paramount, and we will continue to stand with security agencies to ensure peace and justice prevail.”
The bishop’s statement aims to set the record straight while reinforcing the church’s unwavering stance against criminality.
PIONEER NEWS 