In a rare and emotional protest, Catholic priests in Imo State on Thursday raised their voices against the growing insecurity in the region, revealing that 47 of their members have been abducted between 2015 and 2025. Tragically, two priests were killed by their abductors, further fueling their anger and calls for urgent action.
The protest, held at the Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri, was led by Rev. Fr. Anthony Njoku and attended by high-ranking church officials, including the Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Diocese, Luscious Ugorji, and former Archbishop Dr. Anthony Obinna. The priests came together to address what they described as an alarming rise in kidnappings, abductions, and violence affecting not only priests but also the faithful in the state.
“We are speaking out now, before it is too late. The insecurity in Imo State has reached frightening levels. Kidnappings for ransom, abductions for organ harvesting, and violent land invasions are now commonplace,” said Fr. Njoku, expressing deep frustration with the state of affairs.
Between 2015 and 2025, more than fifty clergy and religious figures from various dioceses, including Ahiara, Okigwe, Orlu, and Owerri, have fallen victim to these heinous crimes. Okigwe Diocese recorded the highest number, with 47 priests abducted, while Owerri and Orlu dioceses each suffered the tragic loss of one priest.
The perpetrators are often believed to be Fulani herdsmen, whose attacks have become bolder and more violent in recent years. Fr. Njoku highlighted the emotional and spiritual toll these incidents have had on the clergy and their communities.
“Our priests and parishioners have suffered tremendously,” he said. “These kidnappings and killings are not just headlines; they are personal. We feel the pain deeply, and it continues to grow as more lives are lost and families torn apart.”
The priests expressed disappointment in the state security forces, accusing them of being unable to effectively address the growing violence. They lamented that despite the widespread fear and destruction caused by these attacks, the police and other security operatives seem powerless.
“Whether it’s due to a lack of equipment, insufficient training, or a lack of political will, security forces have failed to stop the violence. This paralysis is deeply troubling,” Fr. Njoku added, calling for immediate government intervention to protect the lives of the clergy and citizens alike.
The police commissioner in Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, was unavailable for comment at the time of filing this report.
The protest highlights the escalating crisis in Imo State, where residents and religious leaders are increasingly worried about their safety. The clergy’s appeal to the government and security agencies for more effective action underscores the growing frustration with the state’s failure to curb rising violence and insecurity.
The priests concluded their protest with a call for unity and action, urging all Nigerians to work together in securing the safety and well-being of their communities.
