The kidnappers 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 abducted on Sunday evening in Ejemekwuru while on his way to attend the annual retreat for priests of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese. His abduction was confirmed on Monday by the Chancellor and Secretary of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah, in a statement.
A church source, speaking anonymously to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday, revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded N50 million but later reduced the amount. However, conflicting reports suggest different ransom figures, with some sources mentioning N10 million.
“Most parishioners have been extremely worried about the safety of Fr. John since his abduction. Though there are varying reports on the ransom demand, what is clear is that he is still being held by the kidnappers,” the source said.
The source also called on the state government and security agencies to intervene, emphasizing that the priest is a missionary with no financial means to meet such a demand.
Another parishioner, who also spoke anonymously, revealed that the abductors forced Fr. Ubaechu to remove his cassock before taking him away.
“We got information that the kidnappers forced our priest to remove his white cassock and dragged him out of his vehicle before they took him away. Naval personnel at Izombe later recovered the vehicle,” he said.
The parishioners and church community have continued to pray for his safe release, while appeals have been made to the abductors to have a change of heart and free the priest unharmed. Authorities are yet to make an official statement regarding negotiations or rescue efforts.
