July 11, (THEWILL) – Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers, on Monday, in Ebonyi State, abducted a Catholic priest, Very Reverend Fr. Joseph Azubuike.
The kidnapped Fr. Joseph is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, Office of the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Matthew Uzoma Opoke, said on Tuesday that the victim was abducted alongside three other persons.
The statement reads in part: “Kindly pray for the unconditional release of Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike, who was abducted yesterday, Monday, 10th of July, 2023, close to his parish on his way back from pastoral duties.
“Fr. Joseph is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
“The abductors are making financial demands but with your prayers, we are going to have them back unconditionally.
“May Mary, Mother of priests, intercede for us. Amen.”
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Ebonyi State Police Command, Onome Onovwakpoyeya, said her office was yet to be supplied with information about the development.
“I am still making contact with our Divisional Police in the area of the incident. Let me find out if the matter has been reported,” she stated.
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