The Anglican Archbishop of the Niger Province, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, and his driver have been released after spending a month in captivity.
Archbishop Okpala, who also serves as the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, confirmed his freedom in a post shared on his official Facebook page on Thursday morning. In the post, the clergyman expressed his gratitude with the words, “Praise the Lord!”
The Archbishop and his driver were reportedly abducted while traveling to Umuchu, a community in Anambra State, to attend a burial ceremony. The incident sparked widespread concern, particularly among members of the Anglican Communion, who had been praying for their safe return.
Although the circumstances surrounding their release remain unclear as of the time of filing this report, the news of their freedom has been met with celebrations across various platforms of the Anglican Church.
The official Facebook page of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Nnewi, was among the first to share the joyous news, prompting an outpouring of thanksgiving from congregants and well-wishers.
This development brings an end to the anxiety that had gripped the Church and the broader community since their disappearance. Further details on the release are expected to emerge as investigations continue.