afrol News, 25 January - Armed men have ambushed an Anglican Bishop just few minutes after saying a mass on Sunday afternoon in Benin City, Edo state, Anglican officials have announced. Reverend Peter Imasuen was reportedly kidnapped as he arrived home from church.

Reverend’s kidnapping comes amid rising tension between Muslims and Christians in central Nigeria following the fierce attacks between the two religious groups a week ago.

"We are trying to establish what exactly happened but we understand the kidnappers are asking for 15 million naira ($100,000 dollars)," the officials said.

Official said he was reportedly trailed by the kidnappers from the St Matthew Cathedral on Sakponba Road to his residence. Source said the suspected kidnappers forced their way into the premises, wielding guns after which they locked up the gateman in the security outpost.

According to them, the Bishop was dragged out of his vehicle and driven to an unknown destination.

Kidnapping for ransom is common in Nigeria, but Mr Imasuen's abduction comes just a week after clashes between Muslims and Christians left nearly 500 people dead in and around the central city of Jos.

The Nigerian Anglican church accounts for 17 million of the world's 77 million Anglicans.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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