CurrentReport Blog In a disturbing turn of events, gunmen have abducted Reverend Father Christian Ike and parishioner Ogbonnia Aneke in Anambra State. The Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia disclosed the incident in a statement on Sunday, urging the faithful to pray for their safe return.
According to the Church’s statement, the abduction occurred around 9:45 a.m. as Father Ike and Mr. Aneke were returning from a Mass held at an outstation of St. Matthew’s Parish in Ajalli, Orumba North Local Government Area.
Reverend Father Lawrence Nwankwo, speaking on behalf of the Diocese, called for prayers and the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help. “We implore the maternal intercession of Our Mother of Perpetual Help for their release,” he stated, emphasizing the need for divine intervention during this crisis.
This incident follows a worrying pattern of kidnappings in the region. Just last month, Reverend Father Basil Gbuzuo of the Onitsha Diocese was similarly abducted, highlighting a growing concern over the safety of clergy and parishioners in Anambra State.
As of the time of this report, the Nigeria Police Force has not issued an official response to the kidnapping of Father Ike and Mr. Aneke. The lack of immediate action or comment from law enforcement authorities continues to raise concerns among residents and the larger community.
Local leaders and community members have expressed deep distress over the recurrent kidnappings. Many are calling for heightened security measures and swift actions by the authorities to curb the rising wave of abductions in the state.
In the wake of this latest incident, the Catholic community is rallying together in prayer and solidarity, hoping for the swift and safe return of Reverend Father Christian Ike and Ogbonnia Aneke.
The abduction of Father Ike and Mr. Aneke underscores a critical need for enhanced security and a proactive approach from law enforcement in addressing the growing insecurity in Anambra State. As the community prays for their release, there is a pressing demand for effective measures to ensure the safety of religious leaders and citizens alike.
