unmen have abducted a Priest of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, Ebonyi State Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike.

The priest was reportedly kidnapped on Monday.

He was kidnapped with three other persons whose names could not be ascertained.

He is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area.

Chancellor of the Diocese, Rev Father Mathew Opoke confirmed the incident in a statement.

He said that Azubuike was kidnapped close to his parish on his way back from pastoral duties.

Opoke noted the kidnappers have established contact amd demanded undisclosed amount of ransom.

The statement reads: “Kindly pray for the unconditional release of Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Azubuike who was abducted yesterday being Monday, 10th of July, 2023 close to his parish on his way back from pastoral duties.

“Fr. Joseph is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebony State.

“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.”

Ebonyi Police spokesperson Onome Onovwakpoyeya could not be reached for comments.

She did not pick calls or respond to messages sent to her as of the time of filing this report.