Imo State Catholic Priest Abducted By Unknown Gunmen

Kidnapping of Imo State Priest Sparks Urgent Calls for Prayers

In a distressing incident in the Obollo community of Imo State, gunmen abducted Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, on the evening of November 5, 2024. The abduction occurred in the Ayayi community as the priest was making his way back to the parish after completing a previous assignment.

According to reports, Rev. Fr. Azubuike was ordained on September 27, 2014, by the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe. In light of this troubling situation, the diocese has issued a statement urging both clergy and parishioners to join in prayer for the safe return of their priest.

The statement, released by Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, the Chancellor/Secretary of the diocese, confirmed the kidnapping and explained that Rev. Fr. Azubuike was taken while travelling through the Aliyi community in Obollo. The diocese emphasized the importance of collective prayer, expressing hope for the priest’s swift and safe return.

The communication from the diocese, titled “Notification of Kidnap and Call for Prayers,” reads: “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped this evening, Tuesday, November 5, at about 6 pm. He was returning from an assignment when he was abducted. 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 incident and called for the community to join in prayer for the unconditional release of the priest, whom he described as a good man.

In response to the kidnapping, Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the state police, stated that urgent measures have been initiated to locate and rescue Rev. Fr. Azubuike, as well as to track down the perpetrators. “The Commissioner of Police has assembled a specialized investigation team to address this matter, aiming to ensure the safe return of the Catholic priest and capture of the kidnappers,” Okoye assured.