Anglican Archbishop, Driver Freed After Month in Captivity

Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, a senior Anglican cleric and retired Archbishop of the Niger Province, has been released after spending one month in the custody of kidnappers. The archbishop was freed alongside his driver, marking the end of a harrowing ordeal.

Archbishop Okpala announced his release in a brief but heartfelt Facebook post early Thursday morning, simply stating: “Praise the Lord!” The post quickly garnered hundreds of reactions, with many expressing gratitude to God for his safe return.

The clergyman had gone missing while traveling to Umuchu, a community in Anambra State, for a burial ceremony. His abduction sparked widespread concern and prayers among members of the Anglican Communion and beyond.

While details surrounding his release remain unclear at this time, the news has been met with widespread relief and celebration, particularly on Anglican Communion social media platforms. The official Facebook page of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Nnewi, is among those sharing the joyous update.