Kidnapping Of Reverend Fr John Ubaechu: A Call For Unity And Prayers

A Priest Taken: The Shocking Abduction in Imo State

In a deeply troubling incident that has sent shockwaves through the community, suspected armed kidnappers have abducted Reverend Fr John Ubaechu, the beloved priest of Holy Family Catholic Church in Izombe, located in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State. This shocking event occurred on Sunday along Ejemekwuru Road, where Fr Ubaechu was traveling to the annual retreat for priests. The news has left many in despair, but it has also ignited a call for prayers and action from all corners of the Catholic community and beyond.

The confirmation of this harrowing event came from Rev’d Fr Patrick Mbamah, the secretary and Archdiocesan Chancellor of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocesan, who released a statement on Monday. In it, he detailed the circumstances of the kidnapping, emphasizing that it happened while Fr Ubaechu was on his way to a retreat meant for spiritual rejuvenation. Instead of finding peace, he was met with a brutal act of violence that has left the community reeling.

A Call for Prayers: Seeking Divine Intervention

In a heartfelt plea, the Catholic Church has called upon all faithful individuals to join together in prayer for the safe and swift return of Fr Ubaechu. The statement, titled "Notification of Kidnap and Call for Prayers," was a powerful reminder of the strength that can be found in unity and faith. It read:

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"I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev Fr John Ubaechu, was kidnapped in the evening of Sunday, 23 March, 2025. Rev Fr John Ubaechu serves as the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church Izombe. The sad incident occurred along Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State. He was kidnapped on his way to the annual retreat for priests. We invite all Christ’s faithful and all men and women of goodwill to earnestly pray for the quick and safe release of our priest. We commend our brother, Rev Fr John Ubaechu, to the powerful intercession of the blessed Virgin Mary, mother of priests, for his speedy release from the hands of his abductors."

Family and Parishioners Respond with Grief and Determination

The emotional toll of this kidnapping has been deeply felt by Fr Ubaechu's family and parishioners. One of his relatives, Benedict Ihejirika, expressed the sorrow that has gripped their hearts. He voiced concerns about the growing menace of crime, which has made everyday life increasingly perilous. In a deeply personal message, he shared the anguish felt by his family:

"The news of Fr Ubaechu's abduction has kept me awake through the night. My family and I have been praying fervently, both privately and in our parish, for his safe return. My daughter couldn’t eat last night after hearing the news, and our home has been thrown into mourning. Calls from concerned friends and family have been nonstop, confirming the gravity of the situation. How can we let men of God, who dedicate their lives to serving others, be treated this way? This is a barbaric act that shows how far we’ve fallen as a society. I can only imagine the fear and uncertainty Fr Ubaechu must be feeling. We need divine intervention to bring him back safely."

He concluded with a prayer, saying:

"Almighty God, this is your fight. You cannot allow your church to fall into chaos. When the shepherd is held captive, the sheep cry out. Our Father and Maker, please visit the place where our priest is being held. Break the chains that bind him and bring him back to us safely. Amen."

Police Take Action: A Commitment to Justice

In response to this grave situation, the Imo State Police Command has swiftly initiated a comprehensive investigation. Spokesperson Henry Okoye confirmed that efforts are underway to locate and rescue Fr Ubaechu, with police officers actively combing the area. The command has urged the public to assist in any way possible by providing relevant information.

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Okoye stated:

"The Imo State Police Command has launched a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible for the abduction of Rev Fr John Ubaechu along Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta LGA on Sunday, 23rd March 2025. We urge the public to assist in this investigation by coming forward with any relevant information."

As the community waits anxiously for updates, the hope for Fr Ubaechu's safe return remains steadfast. In these challenging times, the power of prayer and the pursuit of justice are the pillars upon which the faithful stand, united in their resolve to see their beloved priest home.