Fr Opara released after 2 nights in kidnappers' den

THE Parish Priest of Holy Ghost Catholic Parish, Obosima, Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, Rev. Fr. Matthias Opara, has been released unharmed by his abductors.

The cleric was released after spending two nights in the kidnappers den.

Confirming this development to Vanguard, President, Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, CBCN, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, said that the priest was “released unhurt.”

His words: “I am pleased to inform you that Fr. Matthias Opara has been released unhurt. Thanks for your prayers.”

Meanwhile, celebration erupted among the clerics and laity of the Archdiocese, soon after the news of his release rented the air.

The jubilation was more pronounced at Obosima, where he currently serves as the parish priest of the local church.

A source in the Archdiocese told Vanguard in confidence that prior to his being set free, Fr. Opara’s abductors demanded a N50 million ransom.

He said: “Yes, the kidnappers compelled their victim to use his personal phone line and contact those close to him, including the Archbishop of Owerri Archdiocese.

“I am aware that he called some priests. He also called me and the kidnappers asked for N50 million ransom for his release.

“Fr. Opara was just recuperating from a bout of health challenge before he was kidnapped. This gave all of us serious concern but we only prayed and kept hope alive, for his eventual release from captivity.

“We were badly jolted, yesterday afternoon, when a rumour gained currency that the priest had been murdered and his remains dumped in one of the bushes at Okwu Ogbaku.

“The rumour turned out to be untrue because the Archbishop, who was on a pastoral visit to the same Okwu Ogbaku community, did not get any such information, throughout his stay in the area. All is now history and we thank God for sparing Fr. Opara’s life.”

Reacting to the development, state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Henry Okoye, said: “Operatives of the command’s Tactical Team, were marshaled out for the rescue of the kidnapped priest and possible arrest of his abductors.

“We also had under cover operations. We do not need to always announce to these criminals that we are coming after them. If we do, it makes it difficult for the police to get them at times. Criminals listen and react to news too.”

Culled from Vanguard

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