The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri has officially acknowledged the abduction of Reverend Father John Ubaechu, the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church in Izombe, Oguta Local Government Area, Imo State. In a statement issued by the Archdiocese Secretary, Reverend Father Patrick Mbarah, it was revealed that Father Ubaechu was taken on Sunday, March 23, 2025, along Ejemekwuru Road while en route to the priests’ annual retreat.

The Archdiocese has appealed to Christians and all people of goodwill to join in fervent prayer for the priest’s swift and safe return. Meanwhile, the Imo State Police Command, through spokesperson Henry Okoye, announced that Commissioner of Police Danjuma Aboki has initiated a thorough investigation. The police have deployed an intelligence-driven operation aimed at rescuing Father Ubaechu and ensuring his unconditional release. Okoye also called on the public to assist by providing any information that could support the police efforts in securing the priest’s freedom.