Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Echezona, who was abducted by gunmen released

[Augusta]

A joint security team have rescued a Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Echezona, who was abducted by gunmen at a petrol station in Ichida, Anaocha Local Government Area. Nigeria

Rev. Echezona, the Parish Priest of St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, Ichida and the Chaplain of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Awka Diocese, was kidnapped on Saturday evening, March 22, 2025, when he went to buy fuel at the station.


The suspected kidnappers, operating in a white Lexus SUV without a plate number, abducted the priest in his own vehicle after abandoning theirs during a gun exchange with security operatives who responded to the attack.

“In the early hours of today, March 23rd, 2025, a Joint Security team comprising the Police, Military, Civil Defence, AVG Ichida, and Ihiala respectively secured the release of Rev. Father Stephen Echezona at Ihiala. The priest was returned unharmed,” the statement read.

 

[Starmix]

What was the motive of the kidnapping? Was it ransom or an intent to kill the priest? Last time, it was a monarch abducted. Hoping that there will be no kidnapping to occur to the servants of the Lord.

 

[freelancermaria]

I’m happy to hear that the priest was freed unharmed. It’s alarming to think that kidnapping happens in so many places around the world. Some people do it to demand money, while others may have even more serious intentions, like selling the victim's organs.

 

[Starmix]

The main intention for kidnapping is ransom. That's the primary motive. The next is revenge or jealousy with an intent to kill. It's crucial for the rich people to display themselves. They must not expose to the public to avoid kidnapping for ransom.

 

[eLdavis]

Thank God for his release, i can imagine the trauma he must have been through at the hands of these ruthless kidnappers.

 

[Starmix]

I can also feel the trauma of the priest. I praise God for helping and saving the life of Father Stephen. I am also hoping the criminals will be sentenced harsly