Jos Pastor opens up on self kidnap

Please forgive me, I regret my actions, Jos Pastor, Bitrus Albarka, who staged his own kidnap, cries out

A Jos-based pastor, Bitrus Albarka, who was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly staging his own kidnap, has begged for forgiveness, saying he regrets his actions.

The pastor who reportedly ‘kidnapped’ himself and collected a ransom of N600,000 from his church members, told the police that he committed the crime because he needed money to settle his financial challenges.

The Plateau State Police Command said its investigation revealed that Mr Albarka, a pastor of ECWA Church, conspired with his gang and collected ransoms meant for his release.

During a parade at the police headquarters on Thursday, the pastor said he regretted his action.

“I put myself into these activities because of the financial challenges I am facing. When I did the first one, I felt guilty. When I went out, the money with me has finished.

“I was thinking of coming back. I was just confused. That is why I did the second one. I am regretting my action,” he said.

The suspect who also burnt a vehicle belonging to a senior pastor of the church, said he didn’t know what came over him.

“I burnt the vehicle because I was guilty of what I did. I was just confused. I don’t even know what came over me. Being a pastor, that is why the spirit of God didn’t allow me to go without confessing my action. I am sorry for what I have done. I am really sorry.”