On Tuesday night, fleeing gunmen abducted Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo Community, located in the Isiala Mbano local government area of Imo state.
According to church officials, the priest was kidnapped near Ayayi community in Obollo as he was returning to his parish after completing an assignment.
The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe has confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Tuesday night, appealing for prayers from both the clergy and laity for the priest’s safety and swift return.
The statement, signed by the Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, calls for urgent prayers for the priest’s well-being and prompt homecoming.
“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 6pm.
“Rev Fr Emmanuel Azubuike who was ordained on September 27, 2014, is the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, Obollo, Isiala Mbano LGA, Imo state.
“He was kidnapped along Aliyi community in Obollo, Isiala Mbano, Imo state while on his way back home from an assignment.
“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.
Meanwhile, the councillor of Obollo ward, David Ajaero who confirmed the kidnap of the priest, said the community had begun prayers for his unconditional release.
Ajaero who described the priest as a good man, called for his immediate release even as he prayed for his safety.
Locals from Obollo have already taken to their social media handles to appeal for the release of the priest.
When contacted, Police spokesperson for Imo State Command, Henry Okoye said the command had commenced investigation to rescue the abducted priest.
Okoye said, “The CP has set up a high powered investigation team to look into this matter for possible rescue of the Catholic Priest and apprehension of the suspects”.
