The Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, Obollo community in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo state, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike has been abducted by yet to be identified gunmen.
Fr. Azubuike was abducted was Kidnapped on Tuesday at Ayayi area of the Obollo community while he was returning to his parish from a function.
In a statement by the Catholic diocese of Okigwe and signed by chancellor/ secretary of the diocese Rev.Fr Princewill Iwuanyanwu, the church sued for prayers for the safe release of the abducted priest.
The statement reads, “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.”
Also, the councillor of Obollo ward, David Ajaero confirmed the kidnap of the priest disclosed that the community was praying for his unconditional release.
However, the spokesperson of Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, said that the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma has set up team to recue the priest and apprehend his abductors.
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”.