Gunmen Kidnap Catholic Priest In Imo State
Church officials said he was kidnapped along the Ayayi community in Obollo while returning from an assignment late Tuesday.
Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo, Isiala Mbano, Imo State, has been reportedly abducted by unknown gunmen.
Church officials said he was kidnapped along the Ayayi community in Obollo while returning from an assignment late Tuesday.
The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe confirmed the incident in a statement, urging the faithful to pray for Fr. Azubuike’s safe return.
Signed by the Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, 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 6pm.”
The statement continued, “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.”
Obollo Ward councillor, David Ajaero, who confirmed the priest’s abduction, described Fr. Azubuike as a “good man” and appealed for his immediate release. Residents of Obollo have taken to social media to call for his safe return.
The Imo State Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, stated that investigations had commenced, noting that “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.”
