Father Joseph was arrested by the kidnappers on his way back to the parish after celebrating a funeral Mass in Umunachi in the Njikoka Council area.
The archdiocese's statement, titled "An Urgent Call to Pray Together," reads: "In shock but with strong faith in God's love and protection, we Please inform the priests, religious, laity of the Archdiocese of Onitsha and all people of good will about the kidnapping of our priest Father Joseph Igweagu, priest of St. Joseph's Parish in Abata Nsugbe. "
The Archdiocese of Onitsha joins in praying for his unconditional release and affirms that the Archdiocese is doing everything it can to secure Father Igweagu's freedom.
“As we pray for the conversion of the kidnappers, let us pray together to Mary, the Undoer of the Knots, to intercede for Father Igweagu's speedy release without injury," the statement said. father said.
Kidnapping cases
The abduction of citizens, including clerics, is not uncommon in parts of Nigeria. As of July, at least 18 priests have been kidnapped in Nigeria, including five in the first week of July, according to a statement by Aid to Churches in Need. Since then, there have been numerous reports of several other kidnappings.
Many of these people were kidnapped for ransom and released after the kidnapper group received the ransom . However, others were killed by kidnappers.
Nigerian authorities say they are taking urgent measures to better ensure the lives and property of citizens.