The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri has confirmed the abduction of one of its priests, Reverend Father John Ubaechu, who serves as the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church in Izombe Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State.
A statement released by the Archdiocese Secretary, Reverend Father Patrick Mbarah, said that the priest was taken on Sunday, March 23, 2025, while travelling along Ejemekwuru road en route to the Priests’ Annual retreat.
The Archdiocese has urged all Christian believers and individuals of goodwill to fervently pray for the swift and safe return of the priest.
In the meantime, the Imo State Police Command, through its spokesperson Henry Okoye, announced that the Commissioner of Police, Danjuma Aboki, has initiated an investigation into the matter and has ordered an intelligence-driven operation aimed at the unconditional rescue and release of the priest.
He appealed to the public to assist the police with any relevant information that could help in securing the release of the kidnapped priest.
