Imo Under Siege: Catholic Priest Taken

Gunmen Abduct Imo Catholic Priest

“The Commissioner of Police CP has set up a high-powered investigation team to look into this...”

Obollo Community in Shock as Gunmen Abduct Catholic Priest Reverend Father Emmanuel Azubuike

Gunmen kidnapped Reverend Father Emmanuel Azubuike, parish priest of St. Theresa's Catholic Parish in Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024. He was abducted in Ayayi community while returning from an assignment.

Father Azubuike was ordained by the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe on September 27, 2014. The diocese has requested prayers for his safe return.

The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe issued a statement titled “Notification of Kidnap and Call for Prayers,” urging fervent prayers for Father Azubuike's safety and swift return. The statement, issued by Very Reverend Father Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, reads: “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Revered Father Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped this evening, Tuesday, 5 November 2024, at about 6 pm.”

“Reverend Father 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.”

David Ajaero, the elected councillor of Obollo Ward, confirmed the kidnapping of Reverend Father Emmanuel Azubuike and called for prayers for his safe and unconditional release. He described the priest as a good man, emphasizing the community's concern for his well-being.

The state police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, assured that urgent measures are being taken to rescue the priest and apprehend those responsible. A specialized investigation team has been assembled to handle the case, aiming for the safe return of Father Azubuike.

Okoye said, “The Commissioner of Police 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.”