On Tuesday evening, gunmen kidnapped Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State. The priest was abducted as he made his way back to his parish from a pastoral assignment in the nearby Ayayi community.
Fr. Azubuike, who has served the diocese since his ordination on 27th September 2014, was reportedly taken around 6:00 pm. The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe issued a public statement soon after, requesting prayers from both the clergy and the lay faithful for his safe return.
The statement, signed by Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor/Secretary of the Diocese, expressed deep concern over the abduction and asked for urgent prayers for the priest’s safety.
“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,” the statement read. It continued, “We request your fervent prayers that he may return to us safe and sound, trusting in your goodwill and solidarity.”
David Ajaero, the elected councillor of Obollo Ward, confirmed the kidnapping and urged the community to continue praying for the priest’s safe release. “He is a good man, and we are hoping for his safe return,” Ajaero said.
Local authorities have acted swiftly, with the state police setting up an investigation team to trace the kidnappers and secure Fr. Azubuike’s release. Henry Okoye, the police spokesperson, reassured the public that efforts are underway to bring the priest home safely.
“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,” Okoye confirmed.
