The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri in Imo State has confirmed the release of one of its priests, Revd Fr. John Ubaechu.
Ubaechu, the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church in the Izombe Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was abducted on Sunday, March 23, 2025, along Ejemekwuru road while on his way to the Priests’ Annual Retreat.
In a statement signed by the Archdiocese Secretary, Revd Fr. Patrick Mbarah, it was confirmed that the priest was freed on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
The Archdiocese expressed gratitude to the public for their prayers, which played a significant role in the priest’s safe return.
Both the Catholic Church and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have strongly condemned the targeted abduction of clergy and other members of society, urging security agencies and the government to address the growing threat.