Kidnapped Imo Catholic Regains Freedom

Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, the Catholic priest who was kidnapped on Sunday, March 23, while traveling to Owerri for an annual priests’ retreat, has regained his freedom.

His release was confirmed by the Archdiocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah, in a press statement issued on Wednesday, March 26. Fr. Ubaechu was freed after spending three days in captivity.

Fr. Mbarah expressed gratitude for the prayers and support received from the Catholic community and the public during the ordeal.

“We thank God for His infinite mercy and for answering our prayers. We appreciate your fraternal solidarity and prayers. To God be the glory,” Fr. Mbarah stated.

Earlier reports indicated that Fr. Ubaechu, who serves as the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was abducted along Ejemekwuru, a community in the same LGA.