The Catholic Diocese of Okigwe, in a statement signed by Chancellor and Secretary Very Rev. Fr. Princewill Iwuanyanwu, expressed grave concern over the abduction. “I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Azubuike, was kidnapped this evening, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at about 6 p.m.," the statement read. Church leaders are now calling for urgent prayers from the community, hoping for Fr. Azubuike’s safe return.

Henry Okoye, spokesperson for the Imo State Police Command, confirmed that an investigation is underway to locate and rescue the priest.