Catholic Church confirms release of kidnapped Imo priest
The Owerri Archdiocesan Catholic Secretariat has confirmed the release of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, the kidnapped Parish Priest of the Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe.
A statement by Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbara, the Archdiocesan chancellor, early Thursday morning, disclosed that Ubaechu was released on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
The clergyman was kidnapped on the evening of March 23 at Ejemekuru on his way to Owerri for the annual retreat of priests of the Owerri Archdiocese.
It was also gathered that the kidnappers had demanded N20 million ransom for the release of the priest.
But Mr Mbara, in the statement announcing the release of his colleague, was silent on the details concerning the freedom of Mr Ubaechu from captivity.
“I am directed to inform you that our priest, Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu who was kidnapped on Sunday March 23, 2025 has been released. He regained his freedom from his abductors today March 26, 2025.
“We thank God for his infinite mercy and for answering our prayers. We appreciate your fraternal solidarity and prayers. To God be the glory,” said the statement.
(NAN)
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