Anglican faithful in Anambra State are gripped with anxiety following the sudden disappearance of the retired Archbishop of the Niger Province and Bishop of Nnewi, Most Rev. Godwin Okpala, along with his driver.
The cleric and his driver were last seen on Friday morning, December 6, 2024, when they embarked on a journey to the Umuchu community in Aguata Local Government Area but failed to arrive at their destination.
Efforts by the church to establish contact have yielded no results, and the whereabouts of the archbishop, his driver, and their vehicle remain unknown.
Church Calls for Prayers
In a heartfelt appeal, Rt. Rev. Ndubuisi Obi, the Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, issued a statement on Saturday urging the faithful to join in prayers for the safe return of the Archbishop.
“Dearly Beloved people of God, with a deeply burdened heart, we inform you of the distressing news that our revered Father in God, the Most Rev. Prof. Godwin Okpala, has been missing since yesterday morning,” the statement reads.
“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 trust in God’s divine intervention for a positive outcome. Please join us in intercessory prayers, trusting in the Lord, whose watchful eyes never slumber, to bring our beloved Father in God and his driver back to us safely.”
Police and Church Authorities Involved
A member of the church’s communication board confirmed the incident, stating, “Yes, it is true. The bishop and his driver went on a trip to the Umuchu community on Friday morning, and their whereabouts remain unknown.”
He added that the police and other relevant authorities have been informed of the situation, expressing hope for their safe return.
The incident has sparked concern among members of the Anglican community as prayers and efforts to locate the missing cleric continue.
