Gunmen kidnap Catholic priest in Imo

Gunmen have abducted the Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, Obollo in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike.

It was gathered that Azubuike was kidnapped at Ayayi Community, near Obollo, while returning from an assignment on Tuesday night.

The Chancellor/Secretary of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, confirmed Azubuike’s abduction in a statement made available to newsmen on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

Iwuanyanwu appealed for prayers for the Catholic priest’s safety and swift return.

He stated: “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped Tuesday evening, November 5, at about 6 p.m.

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“We solicit your fervent prayers that he may come back to us safe and sound, while trusting in your goodwill and solidarity.”

The Catholic priest’s abduction was confirmed by the Imo State Police Public Relations, ASP Henry Okoye, on Wednesday.

Okoye said the police had launched a “desperate search” to rescue the priest from his abductors.

“The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has set up a high-powered team to investigate, rescue the priest, and bring the perpetrators to book,” he added.

The Star