Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, a Catholic priest serving under the Owerri Archdiocese, has been kidnapped by gunmen in Imo State while on his way to a spiritual retreat. The abduction took place in the Ejemekwuru community in Oguta Local Government Area, a region that has witnessed increased criminal activity in recent months.
The Owerri Catholic Archdiocese confirmed the incident in a statement signed by its Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah. According to the statement, the priest was traveling alone when his vehicle was intercepted by the armed men, who forcefully took him away.
Security operatives in Imo State have since launched a search operation to locate and rescue the priest. The motive behind the abduction remains unclear, but ransom demands are often a common factor in such kidnappings. Religious leaders in the region have repeatedly called on authorities to do more to protect clergy members, who have increasingly become targets of violent crimes.
The Catholic community has urged the government to step up efforts in tackling insecurity, warning that persistent attacks on religious figures could discourage missionary work and affect the morale of the faithful.
As investigations continue, the church has called for prayers for the safe return of Rev. Fr. Ubaechu.