Gunmen kidnap Catholic priest in Imo
Unknown gunmen have abducted Rev Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, who is the parish priest of St Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
The Reverend Father was reportedly abducted on Tuesday night by the Ayayi community when he was returning from an assignment, according to church authorities.
In a statement, the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe confirmed the incident and solicited prayers for the priest’s safety and swift return to his parish.
Signed by Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, the Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, the statement read, “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped this evening, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at about 6 pm.
“We solicit your fervent prayers that he may come back to us safe and sound while trusting in your goodwill and solidarity,” the statement read.
In a reaction to the incident, Henry Okoye, the state police spokesman, said the command had commenced an investigation to rescue the abducted priest.
