By Divine Sam
The retired Archbishop of Nnewi Diocese, Most Rev Godwin Okpala, has shared the harrowing details of his 27-day kidnapping ordeal, which began on December 6, 2024, when he was abducted along with his driver.
Held in a remote forest, the Archbishop described the experience as hellish, with inhumane treatment from his captors who showed no concern for his well-being.
He was deprived of basic needs such as bathing and brushing his teeth, and was given minimal food, often leftovers from the kidnappers’ workers.
Okpala also explained that his kidnappers were unfazed by his identity as a bishop, stripping him of his cassock and treating him with disregard.
The Archbishop thanked former governor Peter Obi for his compassion in visiting him after his release, acknowledging that Obi was the first to show up after his return.
In related news, the Nnewi Catholic Diocese mourned the loss of three priests, including Rev. Fr. Tobias Okonkwo, who was tragically murdered by gunmen in late December.
The ongoing violence and kidnappings in Anambra State continue to concern local authorities despite promises of improved security.
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