Rev. Father Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish in Obollo, Isiala Mbano, Imo State, has been abducted by unidentified gunmen. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, November 5, 2024, near the Ayayi community in Obollo while he was returning from an official duty.
The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe confirmed the kidnapping and appealed to the faithful to pray for his swift and safe return. A statement issued by the diocese, signed by Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor and Secretary, said: “Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, ordained on September 27, 2014, was abducted around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, along the Aliyi community in Isiala Mbano LGA.”
The statement further urged congregants to “earnestly pray for his safety and well-being during this difficult time.”
David Ajaero, the councillor of Obollo Ward, confirmed the abduction, describing Father Azubuike as a “kind-hearted man” and calling for his immediate release. Local residents have taken to social media to demand his safe return.
In a response, Henry Okoye, the spokesperson for the Imo State Police, stated that an investigation is underway. “The Commissioner of Police has assigned a special investigation team to handle the case, with the aim of rescuing the priest and apprehending those responsible,” Okoye said.
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