Prayers And Pleas: Church In Distress As Kidnappers Set ₦20 Million Ransom For Priest’s Release

Reports indicate that the abductors initially requested ₦50 million but later lowered their demand to ₦20 million. Fr. Ubaechu was kidnapped on Sunday along Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta LGA.

The Owerri Catholic Archdiocese confirmed the incident through a statement issued on Monday by its Secretary and Archdiocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbamah.

A church source quoted by Sahara Reporters on Wednesday revealed that parishioners remain deeply concerned about the priest’s safety, with conflicting reports on the exact ransom demand.

“Many parishioners are anxious about Fr. John’s well-being, as he remains in captivity. Some reports claim the kidnappers are asking for ₦50 million, others say ₦20 million or even ₦10 million. Regardless, our priest is still being held, and we continue to pray for his safe return,” the source stated. He also urged the state government and security agencies to intervene, emphasizing that Fr. Ubaechu is a missionary without personal wealth.

Another parishioner, speaking anonymously, recounted how the kidnappers forced the priest to remove his cassock, dragged him out of his official vehicle, and took him away. The priest’s abandoned vehicle was later recovered by naval personnel in Izombe.

The church community remains hopeful for his safe return and continues to plead for swift action to secure his freedom.