In a troubling turn of events, the family of Jude Nnam, a renowned Nigerian Christian music composer and national music director for the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has debunked a report circulating on social media about his release from kidnappers.
The report, which claimed that Nnam had been freed, was swiftly dismissed by his family as false and misleading. The statement released by his loved ones confirmed that the popular music minister, known for his significant contributions to Nigerian Christian music, is still in the custody of his captors.
“We want to appreciate you all for your prayers and concern for Him,” the family wrote in a public statement. “Meanwhile, the message circulating on social media that he has been released by his captors is FALSE and MISLEADING. HE IS STILL WITH THE ABDUCTORS.”
The incident occurred on Thursday evening around 6 p.m., in Umunnachi, Anambra State, while Nnam was in the area for a church function. His abduction, which sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s Christian community, has sparked widespread outrage, with many expressing frustration over the country’s deteriorating security situation.
Nnam, known as ‘Ancestor,’ has dedicated his life to Christian ministry and music. He also serves on the National Liturgical Commission of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN). His work includes directing national music projects and promoting worship across various Christian denominations in the country.
On his official Facebook page, a second Catholic priest expressed his own shock and frustration, saying: “If this is true, then it is a huge shame. I’m simply tired of this unfortunate space called Nigeria. Why this type of pain and frustration now? Anyway, I just hope this isn’t true. Jude Nnam Ancestor! It is well. Fada Mentor.” His comments reflect the growing sense of helplessness many Nigerians feel as insecurity continues to grip the nation.
The announcement of the kidnapping and the subsequent denial of the release have drawn attention to the severe challenges facing Nigeria in terms of security. Kidnappings for ransom have become alarmingly common, with both civilians and high-profile figures like Nnam falling victim to these criminal acts.
Jude Nnam, who recently marked his 50th birthday, is a widely respected figure in Nigeria’s religious and musical circles. He recently ministered at the Unusual Praise 2024 event at the Basilica of the Most Holy Trinity in Onitsha, an event that brought together thousands of worshippers.
As a leader in Nigerian Christian music, Nnam’s work has impacted both the liturgical and popular music scenes. His recent abduction has stirred both sorrow and anger within the Christian community, with many praying for his safe return and for an end to the widespread violence across the country.
This incident adds to the growing list of abductions in Nigeria, where criminals increasingly target both civilians and high-profile figures for ransom. Despite efforts by security agencies to curb the wave of kidnappings, the situation continues to worsen, leaving many Nigerians feeling vulnerable and unsafe in their own country.
Jude Nnam’s kidnapping underscores a broader issue of insecurity that has plagued Nigeria for years. While the government has promised action and security reforms, citizens remain skeptical, with many wondering when, or if, the situation will improve.
The public response to Nnam’s kidnapping has been a mixture of fear, disbelief, and anger. Nigerians are calling for stronger security measures, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where abductions are most rampant. The abduction of a prominent figure like Nnam has added a new layer of urgency to the debate about the state of security in the country.
