Abducted Imo Priest Regains Freedom

The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri has confirmed the release of Revd Fr. John Ubaechu, the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, in Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State.

Fr. Ubaechu was kidnapped on Sunday, March 23, 2025, along Ejemekwuru Road while on his way to the Priests’ Annual Retreat.

In a statement signed by the Archdiocesan Secretary, Revd Fr. Patrick Mbarah, the church announced that the priest regained his freedom on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.

The Archdiocese expressed gratitude to the public for their prayers, which it said contributed to his safe return.