Tanzanian Melkiori Dominick Mahinini, a 27-year-old Major Seminarian, has been kidnapped in the Minna Province. The incident occurred on August 3, 2023, when Mahinini, who was in Nigeria for missionary work and theological studies, was abducted along with Priest Paul Sanogo from Burkina Faso. The kidnappers have demanded a staggering $70,000 (Sh170 million) as ransom for their release.
Hailing from Kabanga Parish in Kigoma Region, Mahinini's abduction has deeply concerned the Kigoma Catholic Diocese, as expressed by Bishop Joseph Mlola. He remarked that the Frater's abduction was a distressing occurrence and urged prayers for their safety and swift return.
The situation has caught the attention of Tanzania's Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Benson Bana, who confirmed the incident and assured that all necessary actions were being taken to secure their release. Dr. Bana acknowledged the prevailing issue of abductions in Nigeria and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the captives.
The Embassy promptly informed the Tanzanian government about the abduction and adhered to diplomatic procedures by notifying the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. According to Dr. Bana, the incident involved the abduction of two out of four individuals at the Saint Luke Gyedna Parish. The ransom demanded by the kidnappers was initially reported as 100 million naira, equivalent to approximately Sh325.1 million, or around $70,000.
Dr. Bana's cautionary words were not lost, as he mentioned the potential for the ransom demand to escalate to a staggering 500 million naira. His words underscored the need for caution and tact while dealing with the kidnappers.
Cooperation is key in such situations, and the Africa Missionary Society has also joined efforts to assist in resolving the crisis. The organization promptly reported the matter to Nigerian law enforcement agencies. The Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) president, Bishop Gervas Nyaisonga, expressed deep disappointment over the incident. He emphasized the importance of respecting human rights and urged diplomatic efforts to secure the unconditional release of the captives.
The father of the abducted Frater, Mr. Dominick Mahinini, urged collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation and the Church to ensure his son's safe return. His words reflected the helplessness and concern that any parent would feel in such a situation.
This heart-wrenching incident has left the Mahinini family in shock and panic. Melkiori Dominick Mahinini is the fifth of nine children in the family and was drawn to serve God. As the family grapples with the distance and uncertainty, Mr. Mahinini pleads for government support and prays fervently for his son's well-being.
The incident not only highlights the safety concerns faced by those on missionary assignments but also underscores the need for international cooperation and diligence in dealing with such crises. As prayers are lifted and efforts are intensified, the hope remains that Melkiori Dominick Mahinini and Priest Paul Sanogo will be rescued from their captors, returning to their loved ones in peace and safety.
