12th July, 2023
Joseph Azubuike, an abducted Catholic priest from Saint Charles Parish in Mgbaleze Isu, Onicha LGA, Ebonyi State, has regained his freedom.
Onome Onovwakpoyeya, the spokesperson of the Ebonyi Police Command, confirmed that the priest was released at 6 p.m. on Tuesday.
According to the Abakiliki Diocese, Azubuike was taken with 3 others near his parish while returning from pastoral activities.
She said, “Rev. Father Joseph Azubuike has been rescued unhurt, hale and hearty as a result of the concerted efforts of the operatives of the command”.
“Serious manhunt is on for the perpetrators who escaped during the rescue mission. The Rev. Father is in hospital now for medical checks.”
“He was abducted alongside three other people. The abductors are making financial demands, but with your prayers, we are going to have them back unconditionally,” the statement added.