- Church solicits prayers for the priest’s safety and swift return to his parish
Gunmen have abducted Rev Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
The victim was reportedly abducted on Tuesday, 5th of November along the Ayayi community when he was returning from an assignment, according to church authorities.
The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, in a statement, solicited prayers for the priest’s safety and swift return to his parish.
The statement signed by the Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, “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.
“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 Police Public Relations Officer in the state, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident to newsmen on Wednesday.
Okoye said that the command had launched a “desperate search” to rescue the priest from his abductors.
He said, “The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has set up a high-powered team to investigate, rescue the priest, and bring the perpetrators to book.”