Imo: Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Azubuike Kidnapped

By Charles Igbo

The business of kidnapping which took a backstage in Imo State in the past few weeks has reared its ugly head again.

A Roman Catholic Priest, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike was, on Tuesday, November 5, Kidnapped. The Priest was incharge of St Theresa’s Catholic Parish,  Obollo Community, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area.

Fr. Azubuike was returning to his Parish after attending a Church assignment when he was intercepted and kidnapped. Time was about 6.00pm.

In a statement, the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe prayed for the safety of the Priest, and appealed for his release by the hoodlums who kidnapped him.

Signed by the Diocese’s  Chancellor/Secretary,  Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, the statement said: “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.

“Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike who was ordained on September 27, 2014, is the Parish Priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, Obollo, Isiala Mbano LGA, Imo State while on his way back from an assignment.

“We solicit your fervent prayers that he may come back to us safe and sound while trusting in your goodwill and solidarity.”

Imo State Police Command Spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirms that the Commissioner of Police has set up “a high powered investigation team to look into the matter for possible rescue of the  Catholic Priest and apprehension of the suspects.”

Kidnapping for ransome has since become a big time booming business in the South-east. And the people are helpless.