Tension in Anambra as Retired Anglican Archbishop Goes Missing

Anambra State is gripped with anxiety following the sudden disappearance of Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, the retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi.

Reports indicate that Archbishop Okpala was last seen on Friday, December 6, when he set out for Umuchu, a community in the state. However, he never reached his destination, and his whereabouts, along with his driver’s, remain unknown.

Speculations about a possible abduction have arisen, though no confirmation has been made. Attempts to contact the Archbishop, his driver, or locate their vehicle have been unsuccessful, escalating concerns among the public and the church community.

Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, has issued a prayer alert, urging the faithful to pray for the safe return of the missing Archbishop.

In his message, Bishop Obi expressed profound worry and called for divine intervention:

“With a heavy heart, we inform you that our beloved Father in God, Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, has been missing since yesterday morning. He left for Umuchu with his driver but never arrived, and there has been no communication since.

“We plead for your fervent prayers for their safety and swift return. Relevant authorities have been contacted, and we are trusting in God’s intervention for a positive outcome.

“Let us unite in prayer, trusting in the Lord’s protection to bring them back safely. Thank you for standing with us in this moment of distress.”

The disappearance has raised alarm across the state, with efforts ongoing to resolve the situation and ensure the Archbishop’s safe return.