From Magnus Eze, Enugu
A priest of the Abakaliki Catholic Diocese of Ebonyi State, Rev Father Joseph Azubuike who was abducted alongside three other persons at Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of the state, on Monday, has regained his freedom.
The priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbaleze Isu and the others were abducted close to his house as they were returning from pastoral duties.
A release by the Diocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Uzoma Opoke said it was a case of prayers answered as the four were released unhurt.
He thanked Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru and the security agencies for their efforts in securing their release unconditionally.
“God answered our prayers and gazetted the unconditional release of His servant in a very remarkable way.
“We are grateful to God for effecting this release…,” Opoke stated.
The Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki had earlier in the day announced Azubuike’s abduction in a statement by the Diocesan Chancellor, titled: “Call for prayers.”
The initial statement read: “Fr. Joseph is the Parish Priest of St. Charles Parish, Mgbalaeze Isu in Onicha Local Government Area of Ebonyi 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. May Mother Mary of priests intercede for us. Amen. St. Joseph-Pray for us.”