Tension has gripped Anambra State following the disappearance of Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, Retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi. The Archbishop was last seen on Friday when he left for a journey to Umuchu, a community in the state.
As of now, there is no confirmation if the Archbishop and his driver were abducted. The Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, issued a prayer alert on Saturday, calling for intercessory prayers for the Archbishop’s safe return.
The statement reads:
“PRAYER ALERT from BISHOP Ndubuisi Obi of Nnewi Diocese.
Dearly Beloved people of God,
With a deeply burdened heart, we write to inform you of the distressing news that our revered Father in God, the Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala (Retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi), has been missing since yesterday morning.
He embarked on a journey to Umuchu accompanied by his driver but, unfortunately, never arrived at his destination. Since then, there has been no communication, and neither he, his driver, nor the vehicle have been located.
We earnestly plead for your fervent prayers for their safety and swift return. The relevant authorities have been contacted, and we are hopeful and trusting in God’s divine intervention for a positive resolution.
Please, join us in prayer of intercession, trusting in the Lord, whose watchful eyes never slumber, to bring our beloved Father in God, and his driver back to us safely.
Thank you for standing with us in this moment of distress.
+Ndubuisi Nnewi.”
When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Command, Toochukwu Ikenga, stated he was unaware of the incident.
This development comes amid an alarming increase in violent activities by unknown gunmen in Anambra State, leaving many communities in fear. Authorities are urged to intensify efforts to address the situation and ensure the safety of the missing cleric and his driver.
The Church and the wider community remain hopeful for a positive outcome, with prayers continuing for their safe return.
