Gunmen abduct another Catholic cleric Father Christian Ike in Anambra

Gunmen have kidnapped another Catholic priest in Anambra State, exactly one month after a previous abduction in the region was successfully rescued by security personnel.

Reverend Father Christian Ike, the abducted priest, serves as the parish priest at Saint Matthew’s Church in Ajalli, Orumba North Local Government Area. The abduction took at around 10 a.m. on Sunday, while he was returning from morning Mass.

This incident follows the kidnapping of Reverend Father Basil Chukwuemeka, who was taken by gunmen a few weeks ago at Nkpor Junction in Idemili North Local Government Area.

Reports indicate that Father Ike was kidnapped alongside another Catholic faithful, Mr. Ogbonnia Aneke.

While attempts to reach Anambra police spokesman Ikenga Tochukwu were unsuccessful, a senior police officer, who requested anonymity, confirmed the incident. “Yes, the report is true, but the command has already set machinery in motion to track down the hoodlums,” he stated.

A letter from the Diocesan Chancellor of the Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Lawrence Nwankwo, confirmed the abduction, urging the community to pray for the safe return of the kidnapped individuals.

“Dear Brothers and Sisters, CALL FOR PRAYERS. KIDNAP CASE, REV. FR. CHRISTIAN IKE. 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 L.G.A,” the church’s statement read.

Efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue the kidnapped victims as the community grapples with yet another disturbing incident of insecurity.