Gunmen Kidnap Catholic Priest in Anambra

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Suspected gunmen in Anambra State have kidnapped a priest of Nnewi Catholic Diocese, Rev Fr Stanislaus Mbamara.

The young priest was kidnapped last Friday evening while driving from Awka, the state capital, to Nnewi, where he serves.

The Catholic Diocese of Nnewi, which disclosed this through a statement, called for prayers for the priest, expressing hope that he would come out safe.

In a statement issued by the diocese, which was signed by the Chancellor, Fr. Raphael Ezeogu, the diocese said the priest was also a student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, which may have been the explanation to his returning to Nnewi after the week’s lecture.

Ezeogu said: “Our priest, Rev. Fr. Stanislaus Mbamara, a student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, was kidnapped last Friday evening on his way from Awka to Nnewi.

“Let’s storm heaven with humble and insistent prayers for his quick release in sound health of mind and body. May the

Blessed Virgin Mary, and the help of Christians pray with and for us.”

The diocese has not stated if the kidnappers contacted it nor were details of his kidnap made known.

Also, he state Police Command was yet to react to the kidnap of the priest at the time of filing this report.