The abductors of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church in Izombe, Imo State, have demanded a ransom of N20 million for his release.
Fr. Ubaechu was kidnapped on Sunday in Ejemekwuru while traveling to attend the annual retreat for priests of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese.
His abduction was confirmed by Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah, the Chancellor and Secretary of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese, in a statement issued on Monday.
A church source, speaking anonymously on Wednesday, revealed that the kidnappers initially demanded N50 million before reducing the amount.
The source expressed concern over the priest’s safety, stating that conflicting reports on the ransom amount had created uncertainty. “Some reports say N50 million, others say N20 million or even N10 million.
The important thing is that Fr. John is still in captivity, and we continue to pray for his safe return,” he said.
Another parishioner recounted that the kidnappers forced the priest to remove his cassock before taking him away, abandoning his official vehicle, which was later recovered by naval personnel in Izombe.
Appeals have been made to the Imo State government and security agencies to intervene, as parishioners emphasize that Fr. Ubaechu, being a missionary, has no personal wealth.
They also called on the abductors to release him unharmed.
(Prompt news)