On Monday, gunmen kidnapped Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike, a Catholic priest, and three unidentified individuals in Ebonyi State. Fr. Azubuike serves as the Parish priest of St. Charles Parish in Mgbaleze village, Isu community, Onicha Local Government Area.
The Chancellor of the Abakaliki Diocese, Rev Father Mathew Opoke, confirmed the incident and stated that Fr. Azubuike was abducted near his parish while returning from evangelical duties.
The kidnappers have contacted the Diocese and demanded an undisclosed ransom amount. The Abakaliki Diocese requested prayers for the unconditional release of Fr. Azubuike and the other abductees.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, stated that the police have received a report of the kidnapping and are currently conducting an investigation.
