Suspected ESN/IPOB gunmen abduct Catholic priest, three others in Ebonyi

Gunmen suspected to be members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN)/Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have reportedly abducted a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike, along with three other individuals in Ebonyi State.

Rev. Fr. Azubuike serves as the Parish Priest of St. Charles Catholic Church in Mgbaleze Isu, Onicha Local Government Area of the state.

According to a statement issued by the Diocese Chancellor, Rev. Father Matthew Opoke, on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the priest was kidnapped in close proximity to his parish.

READ ALSO: Violence erupts in Ebonyi as police clash with IPOB/ESN members enforcing sit-at-home order

Rev. Father Opoke further revealed that the kidnappers had contacted them and demanded a ransom, though he did not disclose the exact amount.

“We earnestly pray for the unconditional release of Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike, who was abducted on July 10 near his parish. Azubuike serves as the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu, in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi. He was abducted alongside three other individuals. The abductors are making financial demands, but with your prayers, we hope to secure their unconditional release,” stated Rev. Father Opoke.

Confirming the incident, Ebonyi’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, acknowledged the abduction and assured that the command had been informed, initiating an investigation into the matter.

“We have received the news and the command is taking appropriate actions,” she added.

NAN

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