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Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State, has been abducted by gunmen.
The victim was reportedly abducted on Tuesday night along the Ayayi community when he was returning from an assignment, according to church authorities.
Confirming the incident, 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.
Reacting to the incident, Henry Okoye, the state police spokesman, said the command had commenced an investigation to rescue the abducted priest.
