Abducted Imo Catholic Priest Regains Freedom

A Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu who was kidnapped on Sunday, March 23, 2025 in Ejemekwuru, Imo State, has been freed.

Ubaechu’s release was contained in a release signed by the Owerri Catholic Archdiocesan Chancellor/Secretary, Rev Fr Patrick Mbarah on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025.

The statement however did not specify if any ransom was paid to secure the release of the cleric.

The release which was addressed to Eminences, Very Rev Msgri/Frs, Religious Brothers and Sisters, Men and Women of Goodwill read, “I am directed to inform you that our Priest, Rev Fr John Ubaechu who was kidnapped on Sunday, 23rd March has been released. He regained his freedom from his abductors today (Wednesday), 26th March 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,” the statement said.

Rev Fr Ubaechu, the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church Izombe, in the Oguta local government area of Imo state, was kidnapped along the Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta while he was heading to the Priests Annual Retreat on Sunday.

Imo State Police Command was yet to comment on the release of the priest.

However, Catholic faithful have taken to their social media handles to share the release update even as they celebrated the development.