The Imo Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping of Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Parish, in Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of the state.
ASP Henry Okoye, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed the incident to Newsmen on Wednesday.
He said, “The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has set up a high-powered team to investigate, rescue the priest, and bring the perpetrators to book.”
On Tuesday night, Azubuike was kidnapped in the Ayayi Community near Obollo while returning from an operation.
Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, Chancellor/Secretary of the Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, confirmed the kidnapping in a statement released to journalists in Owerri on Wednesday.
The diocese requested prayers from the clergy and laity for the priest’s safety and prompt return.
“I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped Tuesday evening, November 5, at about 6 pm.
“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.
