Retired Archbishop Godwin Okpala of the Anglican Communion, Nnewi Diocese, has shared his painful experience of being held captive for 27 days by kidnappers. The 75-year-old clergyman was abducted on December 6, 2024, along with his driver and was released on January 3, 2025.
Speaking at his residence in Nnewi after his release, Archbishop Okpala described the inhumane treatment he received from his captors. “Those 27 days were like living in hell,” he said. “The kidnappers treated us like trash, kicking us around and showing no concern for our well-being.”
He revealed that he was kept in a dense forest and denied basic necessities. “I didn’t bathe or brush my teeth for the entire 27 days. They gave me water from an unknown source and fed me only once a day. The food was usually leftovers after the boys working with them had eaten.”
The Archbishop said he was wearing his cassock when he was kidnapped, but the captors made him undress, leaving him in shorts, a shirt, and his clerical collar. Despite knowing his identity as a bishop, the kidnappers showed no compassion.
Archbishop Okpala expressed gratitude to Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate, for visiting him after his release. He commended Obi for his kindness and compassion. “Peter Obi is the first person to visit me after my return. He has shown great humanity, and I deeply appreciate his concern,” the Archbishop said.
Anambra State continues to face a wave of violence and kidnappings. On December 26, 2024, Rev. Fr. Tobias Okonkwo, a Catholic priest, was murdered by gunmen in Ihiala. Fr. Okonkwo, who was also a pharmacist and the manager of several health institutions, was among three priests buried recently in Nnewi Diocese.
Despite assurances from Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and the police, the security situation in the state remains dire. Many residents are calling for urgent action to address the escalating violence and restore peace to the region.
Residents hope that efforts to improve security will soon yield positive results, ensuring safety for everyone in the state.
