Gunmen have kidnapped Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State.
The priest was taken on Tuesday evening in the Ayayi community, located within Obollo, while he was returning to his parish after completing an assignment.
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Rev. Fr. Azubuike, who was ordained on September 27, 2014, by the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, was kidnapped around 6 pm.
The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe has issued a statement calling on both clergy and laity to pray for his safe release.
Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor of the Diocese, in his statement, urged the faithful to join in prayers for the priest’s swift and safe return.
The diocese expressed hope and trust in the support of the community in this challenging time.
The councillor of Obollo Ward, David Ajaero, confirmed the abduction, describing the priest as a respected and kind individual.
He called on the community and the public to pray for his safe return.
The Imo State Police Command, through spokesperson Henry Okoye, has confirmed that a special investigation team has been established to rescue the priest and apprehend the perpetrators.
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Efforts are ongoing to secure his release.
