Gunmen have abducted Rev. Father Livinus Maurice, a Catholic priest of the Port Harcourt Diocese, along with two others.
Maurice is the Parish Priest of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Isokpo, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The identities of the two individuals abducted alongside the priest were still unknown as of Saturday afternoon.
The priest was allegedly abducted along the Elele-Isiokpo Road in Ikwerre Local Government Area while returning from a hospital visit.
A statement from the Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt, signed by the Chancellor, Reverend Father Bernadine Anaele, on behalf of the Bishop, confirmed that the incident took place on Wednesday, February 12.
The statement partly read, “Although the matter has been reported to the security agencies, Christ faithful of Port Harcourt Diocese and Nigeria at large have been urged to intensify prayers for the safe and unconditional release of the priest and those with him.”
When contacted for comments, the state police command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident and assured that an investigation is underway to ensure their rescue and apprehend those responsible.
She stated, “Yes the command is aware of the incident and we are making frantic efforts to ensure the protest is released unhurt and the two others.
“Also the command has alerted all tactical units to ensure the suspects are apprehended and made to face the law.”
