Gunmen at dusk on Sunday have again abducted a Catholic priest, Reverend Father John Ubaechu, while he was on his way to an annual retreat.

A statement by the Archdiocesan Chancellor/Secretary of the church, Reverend Father Patrick Mbamah, said the priest, who is the parish priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, was abducted along Ejemekwuru Road in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State.

Meanwhile, the Archdiocese has called for fervent prayers for his quick release by his abductors. Mbamah?s statement reads: ?We invite all Christian faithful men and women of goodwill to earnestly pray for the quick and safe release of our priest.

?We commend brother, Reverend Father John Ubaechu to the powerful intercession of the Blessed Virgen Mary, mother of all priests for his speedy release from the hands of his abductors.? (Daily Sun)