Concern mounts as Parish Priest Kidnapped in Imo State
Tragedy struck on Tuesday night when Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, the parish priest of St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Obollo, Isiala Mbano Local Government Area, Imo State, was taken hostage by unknown gunmen.
The kidnapping occurred as Fr. Azubuike was returning from a church assignment near the Ayayi community, according to reports from church officials.
The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe has issued a statement confirming the incident and calling on the faithful to pray for the safe return of the priest. Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, the diocese’s Chancellor/Secretary, shared a message on behalf of the diocese, stating that Fr. Azubuike was kidnapped on Tuesday evening and appealing for fervent prayers for his safe return.
Imo State Police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, has announced that the police are launching an investigation to secure the priest’s release and ensure his safe return.
Meanwhile, a bomb explosion in a bustling marketplace in Imo State has caused chaos, resulting in the deaths of two suspected hoodlums and several injuries, according to the Imo State Police Command.
The blast triggered a stampede as traders and shoppers fled in panic, leaving a scene of devastation.
