Breaking: Abducted Priest in Akwa Ibom regains freedom

The abducted Rev. Fr. Alphonsus Uboh of St. Pius X Parish in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State has regained freedom from his abductors.

A source within the Parish, who spoke under anonymity disclosed that the priest was released around 2:AM today (Thursday).

He did not disclose if ransom was paid to the hoodlums.

Very Rev. Fr. Uboh, was kidnapped on Sunday May 8, 2022 around 7:30 pm from his residence shortly after he returned from visiting a sick member of his church.

Earlier, the Catholic Secretariat in Uyo, had called for intense prayers from the faithful within and outside the Diocese of Uyo and from all men and women of goodwill in the last 24 hours for his quick release.

A statement issued by the Diocesan Chancellor, Very Rev. Fr. Charles Ekeng dated May 9, 2022 titled, “A Call for Prayers for Abducted Priest” expressed the deep feelings of the Diocese over the abduction of the clergyman at his parish residence.

According to the statement, it is with great pain that we officially confirm and announce to you the abduction of one of our priests, Very Rev. Fr. Alphonsus Uboh from his parish residence at St. Pius X Parish in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

“The unfortunate event happened on Sunday May 8, 2022 after he returned to his residence from visiting a sick member”.

Meanwhile, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command at the time of filling this report said, it was unaware of the release of the kidnapped Reverend Father.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Odiko McDon who spoke with our reporter on the telephone on Thursday said, “I have not been informed of the release of the Catholic priest; I will speak when I am officially briefed”, he said.