Gunmen Abduct Catholic Priest in Imo

Gunmen abducted Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, on Tuesday night.

The priest was seized in the Ayayi community, located within Obollo, while returning to his parish from an assignment.

Fr. Azubuike was ordained on September 27, 2024, by the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe in Imo State.

In a statement released Tuesday night, the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe called for prayers from both the clergy and laity for the priest’s safe return.

The statement, issued by Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, called for fervent prayers for the safety of Fr. Azubuike and his swift return to his parish.

The statement, titled “Notification of Kidnap and Call for Prayers,” reads: “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped this evening, Tuesday, 5 November 2024, at about 6 pm.

“Rev. Fr. Azubuike, who was ordained on 27 September 2014, is the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State.

“He was kidnapped along the Aliyi community in Obollo, Isiala Mbano, Imo State while returning from an assignment.

“We request your fervent prayers that he may return to us safe and sound, trusting in your goodwill and solidarity.”

The elected councillor of Obollo Ward, David Ajaero, confirmed the priest’s kidnapping, revealing that the community was praying for his unconditional release.

Describing Fr. Azubuike as a good man, Ajaero called on the public to pray for his safety.

State police spokesperson Henry Okoye stated that efforts were underway to rescue the priest and apprehend the perpetrators.

Okoye said, “The CP has set up a high-powered investigation team to look into this matter for the possible rescue of the Catholic priest and apprehension of the suspects.”