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Again, Anambra State’s struggles with insecurity continued on Sunday as Reverend Father Christian Ike, a Catholic priest, and Ogbonnia Aneke, a parishioner, were taken captive by a group of gunmen.
The Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia in Anambra State issued a poignant statement on Sunday, imploring the public to join forces in prayer, hoping for a swift resolution to the crisis and the safe return of those affected.
The Church reported that Father Ike and Ogbonnia fell victim to a brazen abduction while traveling back from a Sunday service at St. Matthew’s Parish in Ajalli, Orumba North, Anambra state.
“Rev. Fr. Lawrence Nwankwo. Please pray for the release of Rev. Fr. Christian Ike and Mr Ogbonnia Aneke, who were kidnapped this morning around 9.45 a.m. as they were returning from Mass in an outstation of St. Matthew’s Parish, Ajalli, Orumba North, LGA.
“We implore the maternal intercession of Our Mother of Perpetual Help for their release”.
Read also: Abduction Of School Children Unacceptable – Peter Obi
As the investigation appears to be in its early stages, the Nigeria Police Force has yet to publicly address the abduction, sparking frustration and anxiety among those affected.
The recent spate of abductions in Anambra State bears an eerie resemblance to the shocking kidnapping of Reverend Father Basil Gbuzuo, a prominent Catholic priest in the Onitsha Diocese, just last month.
The spate of kidnappings in Anambra State, including those of Father Ike, Ogbonnia, and Reverend Father Christopher Ogaga, has created a climate of dread among residents and Catholic priests. The Church is increasingly concerned about the safety of its clergy, as these brazen abductions have exposed the vulnerability of religious leaders in the region.
