Story on killing of Bishop Chikwe unconfirmed, misleading – Archbishop Obinna

His Grace, Most Rev. Anthony J.V. Obinna, Archbishop of Owerri, Imo State, has dismissed a story making the rounds of the alleged killing of the Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Most Rev. Moses Chikwe.

A statement by Rev. Fr. Nnaemeka Njezi, Assistant Secretary, Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri, titled ‘Disclaimer on Bishop Moses Chikwe,’ categorically disclaimed “the purported news feed by one Useni Yusuf at AJ Press on the killing of the Auxiliary Bishop of Owerri Archdiocese, Most Rev. Moses Chikwe.”

The statement said that the information being peddled “is unconfirmed, misleading and does not come from the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri.”

It also appealed to all to join the Archbishop in prayers for the release of Bishop Chikwe and Mr. Ndubuisi Robert, his driver.

The Police Command in Imo had confirmed the abduction of Bishop Chikwe but assured his family and friends of his speedy release.

The 53-year-old priest was kidnapped along with his chauffeur on Sunday.

SP Orlando Ikeokwu, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) told journalists on Tuesday in Owerri that the police had swung into action to ensure the release of the cleric.

Ikeokwu called on Catholic faithful in Nigeria not to panic but to remain prayerful in the spirit of the yuletide and hope for Chikwe’s successful release.

“We urge everyone to remain calm in the face of this unfortunate situation.

“We also assure the general public that the auxiliary Bishop will soon be reunited with his loved ones.

“Our anti-kidnapping unit, led by CSP Linus Nwaiwu, has been mobilised to ensure he is freed and the suspects arrested,’’ the PPRO said.