Kidnapped Priest Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu Released: A Message Of Hope And Urgent Appeal

Imo State Celebrates the Safe Return of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu

Hey there, friends, let me tell you a story of hope and resilience. The Owerri Archdiocesan Catholic Secretariat has just confirmed the release of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, the beloved Parish Priest of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Izombe. This news comes as a breath of fresh air after a harrowing ordeal for the priest, his family, and the entire community. It’s like a light breaking through the clouds, offering a sense of relief and gratitude to all who prayed and hoped for his safe return.

Now, let’s rewind a bit. Rev. Fr. Ubaechu was abducted on Sunday, March 23, 2025, while traveling from Ejemekuru to Owerri. He was on his way to attend the annual retreat of priests organized by the Owerri Archdiocese. It’s a trip that so many have made without incident, but for Fr. Ubaechu, it turned into a nightmare. The kidnappers, heartless as they were, demanded a staggering ₦20 million ransom for his release. It’s moments like these that test the faith and courage of an entire community.

A Statement of Hope and Silence on Ransom

On Thursday morning, the Archdiocesan Chancellor/Secretary, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbara, shared a statement with the world, revealing that Fr. Ubaechu had been released the previous day, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. The church, however, has chosen to remain silent about whether or not the ₦20 million ransom was paid. It’s a delicate situation, and the church is treading carefully, focusing on the safe return of their beloved priest rather than the specifics of the negotiation.

Read also:

Discover The Hottest Celeb Couples A Fun Journey Through Stardom

Here’s the official statement from the Archdiocesan Chancellor/Secretary: “I am directed to inform you that our priest, Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, who was kidnapped on Sunday, March 23, 2025, has been released. He regained his freedom from his abductors today, March 26, 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.”

A Community Responds with Gratitude and Calls for Action

The news of Fr. Ubaechu’s release spread like wildfire, and the community erupted in gratitude. Okey, a parishioner at the Holy Family Catholic Church in Izombe, expressed his heartfelt thanks to God for bringing their beloved priest back home. But Okey also highlighted the pressing need for action. He emphasized the importance of establishing security checkpoints around the area where Fr. Ubaechu was abducted to prevent future incidents of crime. It’s not enough to celebrate the return of one priest; the community must work together to ensure the safety of everyone.

Okey pointed out that this same stretch of road—on the Ejemekuru axis of the Izombe/Ogbaku road—has been a hotspot for criminal activity. He recalled how Fr. Mathias Opara was also kidnapped from the same area on May 26, 2023, after attending the burial of a fellow priest’s father. The pattern is alarming, and it suggests that criminals have established safe routes of escape in the region. Okey’s plea is clear: the Imo State Government and security agencies must take decisive action to address this growing problem. The community deserves peace, safety, and the freedom to live without fear.

So, as we celebrate the return of Fr. Ubaechu, let’s also take a moment to reflect on the broader issues at play. This isn’t just about one man’s ordeal; it’s about creating a safer, more secure environment for everyone in Imo State. Let’s work together to make this a reality.