Gunmen Kidnap Catholic Priest, 2 Others In Rivers, Demand Ransom

Unknown gunmen have kidnapped a Catholic priest and pastor-in-charge of Saint Patrick’s Church, Isiokpo, Rivers State, Reverend Father Livinus Maurice and two others.

Maurice and two others were kidnapped while returning to Isiokpo, which is the headquarters of Ikwerre local government area of the state, from Elele, where they had gone on hospital visitation.

A statement issued by the Catholic Diocese of Port Harcourt, said the incident occurred on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, along the Isiokpo-Elele Road in the State.

The statement, which was signed by the Chancellor of the Diocese, Reverend Father Bernadine Anaele, on behalf of the Bishop, Most Rev. Camilus Etukudoh, however, said the matter has been reported to the security agencies.

It, therefore, called on Catholic faithful of Port Harcourt Diocese and Nigeria at large, to intensify prayers for the safe and unconditional release of the priest those with him.

The statement added that the kidnappers have already contacted the Diocese and were demanding ransom.

The Rivers State Police Command was yet to issue any statement on the incident.