The abductors of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, Imo State, have demanded a ransom of N20 million for his release.
Fr. Ubaechu was kidnapped on Sunday evening in Ejemekwuru while traveling to attend the annual retreat of priests of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese. His abduction was confirmed in a statement on Monday by the Owerri Catholic Archdiocesan Chancellor and Secretary, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah.
A church source, speaking anonymously to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded N50 million before reducing their demand. However, there are conflicting reports on the exact amount being requested.
“Some reports say the ransom is N50 million, others say N20 million or even N10 million. Regardless, Fr. John remains in captivity, and we are all praying for his safe return,” the source said.
He urged the Imo State government and security agencies to intervene, emphasizing that the priest is a missionary with no personal wealth.
Another parishioner, who also requested anonymity, described how the kidnappers forced Fr. Ubaechu to remove his cassock before dragging him out of his vehicle.
“We were told that they made him take off his white cassock before they took him away. His vehicle was later recovered by naval personnel in Izombe,” he said.
He pleaded with the abductors to show mercy and release the clergyman unharmed.
