Pastor abducted by Boko Haram released

Pastor Bulus Yikura, who was kidnapped by Boko Haram has been released.

His freedom came about 24 hours before the deadline set for his execution by the terrorist group.

A security source informed our correspondent that the pastor was dropped off on Wednesday evening at the outskirts of Maiduguri, Borno State.

Sources within the Christian community in Borno State said his family members were contacted to pick him up from where he was dropped.

Yikura was sighted in a viral video released by Boko Haram begging the Federal Government and the Christian Association of Nigeria to intervene in his release

He was quoted in the video pleading, “I have been given only seven days to appeal for assistance that will help me out of this torture.

“If truly you want to rescue me from this untold suffering and threat to life, then you have to act fast.

“I am also calling on the EYN president to help mobilise help that will rescue me, and also pray for me so that God will make things easy for me here.”

Due to his appeal, the Federal Government promised to ensure he was not killed by the insurgents.

Yikura was abducted on Christmas Eve last year when Boko Haram attacked Pemi village in the Chibok Local Government Area.

When contacted, the Borno State Chairman of Christians Association of Nigeria, Bishop Mohammed Naga said, “I cannot confirm his release, I am equally hearing it just like you did. I have not been able to confirm it from the security, the Christian community or from his family.”