Nigeria Gunmen Strike Again, Abduct Catholic Priest and Driver in Anambra

Gunmen have abducted Reverend Father Christian Ike and his driver in Anambra State, prompting calls for prayers and the intervention of security agencies.

Gunmen have struck again in Anambra State, reportedly abducting Reverend Father Christian Ike, a Catholic priest at St. Mathew Catholic Church in Ajalli parish, Orumba North Local Government Area. According to Lawrence Nwankwo, the diocesan chancellor, the priest was kidnapped on Sunday around 9:45 am while returning from mass at an outstation of St. Matthew's Parish.

In a letter addressed to all parishes within the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobi, Nwankwo revealed that Ike's driver, Ogbonnia Aneke, was also abducted during the incident. The letter urged parishioners to pray for the immediate release of the clergyman and his driver, imploring the intercession of the Mother of Perpetual Help.

This abduction comes just a month after another Catholic priest, Basil Chukwuemeka, was kidnapped by suspected gunmen near Onitsha in Anambra State. The state has witnessed a surge in criminal activities, with gunmen carrying out attacks and abductions in various areas.