Esther Salifu
Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, the kidnapped Parish Priest of the Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, has been released by his abductors, the Owerri Archdiocesan Catholic Secretariat confirmed on Thursday. Ubaechu’s release comes after a three-day ordeal, during which his kidnappers demanded a N20 million ransom.
According to Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbara, the Archdiocesan Chancellor/Secretary, Ubaechu was kidnapped on Sunday, March 23, while on his way to Owerri for the annual retreat of priests of the Owerri Archdiocese. Mbara’s statement announcing Ubaechu’s release expressed gratitude to God for his freedom, saying,
“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.”
A parishioner at Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, identified as Okey, welcomed the news of Ubaechu’s release, saying, “We thank God for the release of Fr. Ubaechu.” However, Okey also called on the Imo State Government and security agencies to address the recurring incidents of violent crime on the Ejemekuru axis of Izombe/Ogbaku road, where Ubaechu was kidnapped.
Okey noted that this same area has witnessed multiple kidnappings and armed robberies, including the kidnapping of another priest, Fr. Mathias Opara, in May 2023. To prevent further incidents, Okey suggested establishing a security checkpoint in the area.
