* Owerri Archdiocese urges prayers for cleric
The parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church Izombe, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, Rev Fr John Ubaechu, has been kidnapped.
Ubaechu was reportedly kidnapped by unknown persons on Sunday evening in Ejemekwuru, Imo State.
The Owerri Catholic Archdiocesan Chancellor and Secretary, Rev Fr Patrick Mbarah, conveyed the sad news to Church members through a circular.
The circular read: “Notification of kidnap and call for prayers. I am directed to inform you that one of our priests, Rev. Fr John Ubaechu, was kidnapped on the evening of Sunday, 23rd March, 2025.
“Rev Fr John Ubaechu is the parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church Izombe. The sad incident occurred along Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta Local Government Area. He was kidnapped on his way to the Priests’ Annual Retreat.
“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.”