The abducted Catholic Priest, Rev Father Alphonsus Uboh of St Pius X Parish in Ikot Abasi Akpan, Mkpat Enin Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, has been set free by his abductors The Trumpet gathered.
A source within the Parish, who pleaded anonymity said the priest was released by 2 am on Thursday but did not disclose whether ransom was paid to secure his freedom.
It will be recalled that Rev. Fr. Uboh, was kidnapped on Sunday, May 8, 2022, around 7:30 pm at his residence shortly after he returned from visiting a sick member of his parish.
Prior to his release, the Catholic Secretariat in Uyo had called for intense prayers from faithful within and outside the Diocese of Uyo and also, men/women of goodwill in the last 24 hours to do so 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” conveyed the deep feelings of the Diocese over the abduction of the clergy at his parish residence.
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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 of his parish.”
Meanwhile, the Akwa Ibom State Police Command at the time of filing 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 The Trumpet in Uyo said, “I have not been informed of the release of the Catholic priest, but I will speak when I am officially briefed.”
